This assumes
you've already looked through (and even read some of) the
'How to use your SLR'
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Basic gear you need:
Tripod, remote shutter
release (or use your cameras timer), and patience
The Aim:
To get the subject
(usually person) to stand out
How:
Camera Setting: Manual
Shutter Speed: No
preference, but refer to the
Shutter Speed article.
The slower you go, the more light you get. Take a simple test picture and
see if you like the effect, otherwise adjust the shutter speed to be
slower.
ISO: Best to use
iso100 to reduce the
effects of noise.
Aperture: About f4
to f11 is usually fine. No strong preference, here. (see
DOF explained for
more on this).
White Balance: Be sure your
white balance is set for
night.
Lenses: Again, no
preference, but depending on your subject,
your choice of lens will vary. I prefer to use my newer lenses, as they
bring out more details and colours than older ones
Tripods and Timers: Set your camera firmly on
the tripod, so it's as stable as possible. Use weights on your
tripod, if you can, in windy conditions. Use your shutter release cable or
cameras self-timer instead.
Quality Issues: Be sure there's no
distractions, or unnecessary junk in the background. Plan it, so
everything that you see through the lens is there, because it needs to be.
Examples:
Click on these to view them at a
larger size. Also see Fireworks.
< Konica
Minolta Alpha Sweet, f10,
30sec, iso400; 18-70mm lens, with tripod (no flash)
< Minolta
303si, set on 'Night', using self-timer and tripod
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