subject: A Few Tips For Photographing Sunsets [print this page] Both amateur and professional photographers find themselves interested in photographing sunsets. It's partly because, with their rich colors and warm lights, sunsets are begging to be memorialized. However, snapping photos of such bright sources of light are difficult. So arming yourself with a few tips will help out.
Find out what time the sun usually sets in your area. This information can be easily obtained by watching your local weather or checking online. Most national weather websites should have your cities sunrise and set times.
Find a secluded spot next and get there nice and early. Finding some in an obstruction free field or on a small hill and staking them out will give you the best views. Sometimes, although, things like houses and tall trees can make for a photograph's great focal points. Spend a few days or so searching for the best spots to make things a little easier on yourself.
Once the perfect spot has been chosen, get there early. To get the best photos you'll have to arrive at your spot at least thirty minutes before the sun sets. This will give you ample time to unpack your gear and get your camera ready. And since you will be photographing the sun, be sure to bring a dark pair of sunglasses with you.
If the camera you are working with is digital, then there are several of its settings that you can tweak. The ISO settings on the device should be set at its lowest. The setting sun's natural light will provide all the light the show will need but if it doesn't you can always increase it. And since extra light probably won't be necessary, the device's flash should be turned off. You can turn it on again after the sun has completely set.
After the sun has set, wait around a few more minutes. The sky will be filled up with enough residual light to ensure you take great pictures. Just keep it in mind that you will most likely have to adjust the settings on your camera since there won't be as much light. You can switch the ISO settings on the device, for example, back to auto. This period is a good time to turn on the flash for a few photos too.
Always check the local weather forecast before you go out for a photo session. Rain and thunderstorms will make it impossible to work and are dangerous to shoot in. However, don't get discouraged by clouds in the sky. These billowy and large objects will catch the sun's light and make for magnificent photographs.
Also, don't be too afraid to take lots of shots. You can sort them later to pick the duds out. You could try changing position slightly while shooting to get some better angles or use the flash for a shot or two. Don't get discouraged by clouds since they catch the sky's light and make magnificent photographs.
