Long-exposure photography is an interesting choice
Celeste Van Kirk/Observer-Reporter
The movement of the skaters helps add to the atmosphere of the holiday celebrations during Light Up Night in Market Square. Shot at 1/6 of a sec. at f/5, ISO 800.
Celeste Van Kirk/ Observer-Reporter
PAPA World Pinball Championships. PAPA operates the largest, most competitive pinball tournament held anywhere in the world. Shot at 2.0 sec. f/11 ISO 400.
Celeste Van Kirk/Observer-Reporter
A slow shutter speed with a flash helps to capture the lights, colors and movements of the dancers at a nightclub.
Long-exposure photography is one of the most creative genres of photography and provides an opportunity to capture stunning images.
The technique of long exposure, or slow shutter, involves a long duration shutter speed that sharpens the stationary elements of the photo while blurring or smearing the moving elements.
Long exposure helps to convey the passage of time. Obviously, the pinball player had been there for a while, playing a game while spectators move in and out around him. The people have a ghost-like appearance, giving the image an interesting quality.
The most imported element for long-exposure photography is motion. Without motion, there is no way to convey the passage of time. Long-exposure photography is ideal for capturing the atmosphere and mood of a busy street scene, or swirling leaves in a stream and star trails. For inspiration, do some research.
A camera is a tool of expression. Don’t be afraid to explore new techniques.
A few things that you will need, and some tips, for a long-exposure photograph:
- A tripod is a must
- Shutter/cable release
- Neutral density filter is optional, depending on the time of day
- Set your camera in the BULB (B) setting
- Use a small aperture
- Use a low ISO