Unit Four : The Exposure Triangle
Sean Makin © 2018. Nikon D610| 24.0 mm | ƒ/1.8 | 13s | ISO 2500Low Light Conditions
In low-light conditions, the available ambient light is often insufficient to achieve a well-exposed photograph using standard exposure settings. To address this challenge, you may opt for a slower shutter speed, allowing the camera's sensor to be exposed to light for a longer duration.
While this can effectively capture more light and detail in low-light environments, it introduces a potential drawback - the risk of camera shake and resulting blurry images. Slow shutter speeds make the camera more susceptible to the natural movements of the photographer's hand, leading to unintentional blurring in the final image.
Recognizing this, you can employ various stabilization techniques to mitigate the effects of camera shake. One commonly used method is the use of a tripod, providing a stable platform for the camera during the longer exposure. Additionally, image stabilization features in some camera systems or lenses can help compensate for minor movements. By carefully managing shutter speed and stabilization methods in low-light conditions, photographers can achieve well-exposed, sharp images without compromising on image quality.
Sean Makin © 2018. Nikon D610| 20.0 mm | ƒ/8.0 | 88s | ISO 100Long Exposures
Long exposures involve the deliberate use of very slow shutter speeds, often extending into seconds or even minutes, to create unique and visually interesting effects. Commonly this technique is seen in capturing star trails, light painting, smoothing moving water, and producing ethereal effects in low-light situations.
When utilizing long exposures to photograph star trails, the prolonged shutter opening allows the camera to record the movement of stars across the night sky, resulting in swirling patterns. In light painting, where additional light sources are introduced during the exposure, extended shutter speeds enable the painter to manipulate and shape the light in the frame. Utilizing a long shutter speed when photographing moving water captures the continuous motion, creating a smooth look.
In low-light scenarios, employing long exposure techniques can reveal subtle details and textures that might be otherwise imperceptible with shorter exposure times. When photographing a skyline at night, for instance, a longer shutter speed will expose lights from buildings which may not even be noticeable to the photographer.
Despite its artistic appeal, mastering long exposure photography requires careful consideration of factors such as stability, lighting conditions, and creative intent. The deliberate use of extended shutter speeds offers you a powerful tool to make images that transcend the constraints of conventional exposure settings.