Digital Photo Tip #9 By Bruce Kirkby Nov 1, 2005

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Night Shots

Traditionally, calculating correct exposures of night scenes has been a confusing mix of science and art for film photographers. Now digital technology has revolutionized the experience, making great images quick and easy—the result of on-site experimentation.

Just grab a tripod and wander out into the night, training your lens on anything that emits light. Set the camera on manual (M), select an aperture of f/2.8 and try a five-second exposure. If that is too dark, try 10, then 20 or 30. Gradually the background will lighten. Anything moving will appear blurred. Cars will become streaks of white headlights and red tail lights. For starters, try taking a photo of your own house at night, with all the inside and outside lights turned on. I bet you’ll be pleased with the result.

While travelling in Ottawa, I stopped outside the Parliament Buildings, where the eternal flame, flood lights, and even a spotlight on the Canadian flag high above produced a bright scene.

If you are lucky enough to see northern lights, get your digital camera out. Try a 20-second exposure (any longer and the aurora will blur). Vary your ISO to make the lights appear brighter or duller. Northern lights are surprisingly common in the Prairies during autumn—just leave the city limits to escape light pollution.