Tips please!

[Jo]

I'm going to Titchwell Marsh RSPB reserve tomorrow to get some new feeders and what not, obviously taking some shots while there too.

On the way out we are going to stop at a few different beaches I think... now can someone explain to me simply what the best way to take slow shutter and/or long exposure shots is? I think I have asked this before but I'm not sure. Of course if you can link me up to a tutorial either that would be good. Maybe the simplest way for me to learn myself would be to see some of your examples of work with the settings you used as a guide, then I can use those settings and learn from there :shrug:

I now have a remote so it's going to be much easier for me. But my only lenses so far are the 18-55mm kit lens and 70-300mm sigma. Oh, and of course I have a tripod too

Also there is a chance that there might be some good lightning tonight and tomorrow too, so I would love some tips on capturing that!

Cheers!

 

[Yv]

USE THE TRIPOD!!

set camera up on tripod [I find manual aperture and shutter speeds best], with either lens, depending on what you are shooting, decide what sort of aperture you want, check focus and framing is correct in the viewfinder, then basically, set the shutter speed to whatever you feel is a good starting point. Step away from the tripod, and shoot!! Check results and shoot several more at different shutter speeds and maybe diff apertures until you feel you have the image you want. Ultimately it does come down to exactly what you are thinking of taking pictures of, and trial and error on the best shutter speed for that image. Remember that during the day, especially if its sunny, over exposure will be a problem, so keep apertures as small as possible. After that I think its ND grad filters, or at the very least a polariser to increase the length of shutter speed you can get away with before over exposure becomes a problem. Also, you say beaches, so i am assuming finding shots of very shady areas where longer exposures work well is not an option?

Alternatively, adopt the LadyLens patented long shutter speeds solution - go out at night

 

[Jo]

Well I think it's going to be overcast tomorrow... at least i don't think it's going to be too bright anyway. I was thinking, will bracketing help solve the expose if it gets too bright?

I know I need a polariser.. every time I have funds in paypal I forget though I just get drawn to all the other tempting stuff instead.

Going out at night ~ You know something? for almost 2 weeks I haven't seen the bloody moon! I check every freakin night... all through the night when I'm doing my night shift. Only once has it been out in two weeks, and that night I could barely move so I missed the opportunity . I wanna try some star shots at some point soon too, it's just getting a clear night that's the problem.

 

[Yv]

What do you plan to use longer exposures on? That might help withe advice.


last time I did the moon, I set the camer up carefull on the 3 legged beasty, and started shooting, totaly over exposing, even at F14 - so turned up the speed again and agin until I got teh shot I wanted...at 1/125 - could have bloody hand held at that speed

Stars? Good luck, I live in london, never bothered trying, figured the polution would turn the shots orange anyway, though you should have better luck up round Boston, plenty of light free countryside there

 

[Jo]

Well I want to get some tidal shots... the dreamy kind I see floating about here and there around rocks and stuff. Plus if it does get stormy, then I want to get some lightning shots if I can. I'm thinking I will be in the perfect location if that happens :shrug:

 

[Yv]

Sorry Jo, couldnt stay awake last night.

Not sure about tidal shots, never really done them, but I am sure someone round here has. Otherwise, just give yourself plenty of time, make sure the tripod is as stable as possible [I am thinking of sand now] and try several different settings. Overcast is better I think, but you still may get blown skies, so some bracketting may be needed and clever pp.

Lightening! :shrug: Now that takes some cleverness beyond me!

 

[Dino f]

Jo, i find the best way to capture lightning is to set up the shot on your tripod, in the direction you expect the lightning to appear, stop the aperature down to about f11-16. Then set the shutter speed to bulb or "B" setting. Place a piece of black card over the front of the lens hood and fire the shutter. When you see the first sign of the lightning strike take the black card away from the lens, as soon as it has gone replace the black card. If you think you have sufficient exposure for the picture then close the shutter.
If not then just move the card away at the next strike.
I know it's obvious but please be careful when taking photo's of lightning and observe all the do's and dont's about protecting yourself. Hope this has been of some use.
Have fun.
Dean

 

[Jo]

Dino f ~~~ nice post count you have there And thanks for the advice! That's a pretty cool way of doing it

Ladylens ~ thank you also.

I'm off shortly wish me luck... but don't hold your breath for pics, if they are rubbish they will stay in my folders and never see the light of day

 

[Dino f]

Dino f ~~~ nice post count you have there

Ha ha. saving that one for you!