how to shoot at night

(spin2win) · (spin2win) **Join Date: Feb 2006** 07-14-2007, 8:04 AM

OK so I have a 20d and I love shooting it during the day. However I was wondering how to shoot after sunset and right before. All I want is the natural light can someone give me some tips. Thanks

(scott_a) · (scott_a) **Join Date: Dec 2002** 07-14-2007, 8:54 AM

umm...turn the camera on, find the correct shutter speed and aperture, and theeeen press that little button under your right index finger!

It's really no different than shooting during the day. Where are you having problems?

(spin2win) · (spin2win) **Join Date: Feb 2006** 07-14-2007, 9:19 AM

i was on the 405 yesturday on my way to Disneyland in cali and it was pitch black. The LA skyline was insane. All of the skyscrapers were lit up and the traffic lights were perfect. But I could not get the picture to capture the lights it was all blurry

(scott_a) · (scott_a) **Join Date: Dec 2002** 07-14-2007, 9:50 AM

What type of camera are you using?

2 options:
1) bump up the ISO so that you can get a good shot at 1/60 sec.
2) set the camera on a tripod and take a picture with a long exposure.

(spin2win) · (spin2win) **Join Date: Feb 2006** 07-14-2007, 10:27 AM

its a 20d thanks for the tips

(cmawsr) · (cmawsr) **Join Date: Nov 2002** 07-14-2007, 10:53 AM

You'll need a tripod. or IS and really steady hands

I also recommend getting a cable release.

(richd) · (richd) **Join Date: Oct 2003** 07-14-2007, 12:13 PM

Cranking up the ISO for night/skyline shots just wipes them out so I like to stick to under ISO400 and thus a tripod is really a must (or set the cam down on something)

Turn off IS, engage MLU and set the shutter mode for 2 or 10 second timer. Let the camera set the shutter in AV mode initially and then adjust to taste after looking at the image in the LCD. I've found it will usually overexpose a bit.

(peter_c) · (peter_c) **Join Date: Sep 2001** 07-14-2007, 1:59 PM

You can use the camera self timer on the tripod to keep the camera steady. Wireless or cable shutter releases are just a bonus. Pocket Wizards with the right adapter work great too.

(spin2win) · (spin2win) **Join Date: Feb 2006** 07-14-2007, 2:39 PM

thanks guys.