Night photography is exciting and challenging. Slow shutter speeds let you record star trails, or the streaks of light left by passing traffic, and that is only the start. To get the most from it you need to prepare, and to know your camera's settings well, because you will be changing them in the dark.
If you are new to it, or want to improve, these tips will help.
Find the right location
Location matters more than anything. For most night photos you will want an interesting cityscape or landscape that gives the viewer a sense of place.
For the night sky, find a spot away from light pollution with a clear view. If buildings are in the way, look for higher ground nearby. It pays to scout in daylight, or with the satellite view of an online map.
Be ready to be out for a while
Long exposures take time, so you may be out for hours. Dress for the season, and for standing still. Bring water and something to eat. Cold fingers make it hard to change settings, so bring gloves or hand warmers.
Bring a torch
Where there is no light, you need a torch to see what you are doing, ideally one you can dim. A red light is kinder to your night vision. It also helps with focusing: light up something in the scene and focus on that.
Know your settings
Understand the basics before you set off. Three settings control how much light the camera records: the aperture (how wide the lens opens), the shutter speed (for how long) and the ISO (how sensitive the sensor is). At night there is little light, so one or more of them has to give. Check the forecast too. Heavy cloud will hide the stars and the moon.
Shoot in manual mode
Automatic modes are easily fooled at night, and tend to give blown-out lights or murky shadows. In manual mode you choose the aperture and shutter speed yourself.
For light trails, for example, use a low ISO and a long shutter speed, several seconds or more, with a smaller aperture so that the street lamps do not burn out. For stars, do the opposite: open the aperture wide and raise the ISO.
Find your angle
Experiment. Get low and point up at buildings, or stand right under a street lamp. Use reflections in water and wet pavements, which throw light back into the scene and give it warmth and character.
Use a tripod
With the shutter open for seconds at a time, the slightest movement blurs the picture. A tripod is the single most useful thing you can bring. Without one, rest the camera on a wall or a bag.
Try bulb mode
For exposures longer than 30 seconds, set the camera to bulb mode, in which the shutter stays open for as long as you hold the button. It is the setting for light painting and other experiments. Use a remote shutter release so that you do not shake the camera.
Be patient
Night photos reward waiting. Watch what is happening around you and take plenty of shots, because many will not work first time. Above all, enjoy yourself. Night photography can be every bit as rewarding as daytime photography.
Got a night shot worth framing? Call EasyFrame on 01234 856 501 or email sales@easyframe.co.uk. We are happy to talk it through even if you do not want to buy.