Tips to Shoot Better Photos After Nightfall
Some of the best photos to date are undoubtedly those taken at nightfall. Under the shimmering moon and magnitude of stars, if taken correctly, photos can capture a rare and inexplicable beauty. However shooting at nightfall is often problematic due to the low levels of light and poor visibility. Here are some tips to help photography lovers take better photos after nightfall and capture that midnight magic through the camera lens.
CC Photo by tpohlsch on Flickr
When shot correctly, nightfall photos can be truly striking.
Use a reliable tripod
Paying that little bit extra for a good, sturdy tripod will be well worth it. However steady photographers believe they can keep their hands, the cold night air and brisk breeze is guaranteed to affect their balance. Longer exposure will be required after nightfall in order to capture those dazzling views. Without a tripod, photographers are sure to struggle, resulting in blurry and unclear pictures. Unless that’s the effect photo fanatics are going for, having a reliable tripod is most definitely a must.
Look for the light- or create some!
When taking photos after nightfall it is still crucial that photographers look for the light in order to capture a striking view. Without any light, the image will simply show a cloud of blackness- not exactly a stunning sight. Using the moon or the closing of a sunset as the source of light will make for an incredible photo.
If there is no light present, photographers should create their own by using a torch, mobile phone or alternative form of light. Even using the light on a kindle is better than using none at all. By shining the light on the specific subject that photographers want to capture, focus will be given, resulting in a great picture. Photographers can play about with the angle of light, changing it according to their wishes and seeing which angle captures the image in its most fascinating light.
Looking for the light is essential when taking photos after nightfall.
CC Photo by Eric Magnuson
Explore shutter times
Using longer shutter times will make for better photos after nightfall. More light will be absorbed when using a longer shutter time, meaning the image produced will be much clearer. Subjects will appear a lot brighter, creating a spectacular, striking effect. If photographing the night sky, for instance, use a shutter time of up to 20 minutes in order to capture the vibrant light of the stars and see them journeying through the stunning night sky.
Play around with camera settings
Whilst a lot of photographers choose to shoot night photos using manual settings, this is not for everyone. Photographers should play around with the settings until they find the one perfect for them. Many digital cameras also come with the option to change contrast levels, colours and even add filters, allowing photo lovers to enhance those nightfall shots.
Conclusion
These few, simple tips will help photographers capture those night-time shots stress free. From using a reliable tripod to playing around with camera settings, these useful tips will make for incredible photos after nightfall. A little equipment and a bit of exploration will go a long, long way in enhancing photographer’s nightfall techniques.
Image Credits: tpohlsch and EricMagnuson
Article by Tom Reynolds
Tom Reynolds is a professional photographer and a marketing analyst for Pixpod the photobooth provider. He spends his freetime discovering innovative ways of taking photos.
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