What’s Your Preference?

DayDreamer · #1 (**permalink**) 10-22-2010, 02:35 PM

I seem to be attracted to these types of structures and water towers in particular - I've been noticing a trend in my recent pics. But I am new to nighttime photography. Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions as to what types of lenses/settings make for the best captures in these settings.

Camera Nikon D40
Exposure 7.1
Aperture f/5.6
Focal Length 18 mm
ISO Speed 400
Exposure Bias +1/3 EV
Flash No Flash

Thanks for the feedback!

navcom · #2 (**permalink**) 10-22-2010, 04:52 PM

I think your composition looks pretty neat. I like the shot. For settings, I think I would use the lowest ISO possible to get the best image quality and probably bump up that aperture to f/8 or f/11. Of course a tripod is a necessity.

Hope that helps!

bruceliv · #3 (**permalink**) 10-22-2010, 06:25 PM

Lynne:
I have a suggestion, and someone will likely nail me as not being a purist

Go outside tonight, if the moon is out.

Set the ISO=200-400.
Zoom in as far as you can (use longest focal length you own!) *
Focus at infinity.
Set aperture between f/8-f/11 (The sharpest aperture setting for your lens)
Shutter = 1/30 -- the reason is the moon is a moving subject and you want to nail it. You shouldn't even need a tripod.

While you're out there, take some bracketed shots, alternating +/- one stop with aperture, shutter, ISO settings.

Superimpose the new moon image onto the image above with post-processing. You can also resize the moon to any "realistic" size you want. It should be bright, might show surface detail, and be tack-sharp!

I've enjoyed viewing some of your shots on flickr.

*I've noticed you own the 55-200mm. Great! Shoot the moon with that around 150-180mm. At 200mm, the lens is not quite tack-sharp. For this lens, I'd suggest a tripod and turn off VR if it's that version.

wadey1982 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-22-2010, 10:43 PM

Hand shoot at 1/30 at maximum zoom and not get any motion blur? must have steady hands. I would be using a tripod at those shutter speeds.

Photologyst · #5 (**permalink**) 10-22-2010, 11:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bruceliv

...Superimpose the new moon image onto the image above with post-processing. You can also resize the moon to any "realistic" size you want. It should be bright, might show surface detail, and be tack-sharp!

LOL, that was the first thing I thought of as well. A GIANT rising full moon plunked in next to the tower.

The only thing is that full moon records exist—if anyone wanted to check.

bruceliv · #6 (**permalink**) 10-23-2010, 12:29 AM

That's why I suggested tonight

DayDreamer · #7 (**permalink**) 10-23-2010, 12:43 AM

Thanks for all the great suggestions. Yeah, full moon tonight. I will try to catch it. It's a bit overcast tonight, which might make it interesting if it peeks through. I used a tripod with the shot above and for 1/30 I think I will need it again, but I can try it both ways.

Do you use the in-camera editing for the overlay (superimpose)? I hate to admit it, but I haven't bought a "real" program for post-processing yet.

I guess it's good practice to try to get it right straight out of the camera, but I know I am going to need to make that purchase soon. I generally bracket out of habit because I am still learning what camera settings work with certain conditions, but I haven't used it to enhance post-processing.

Also, I usually leave the VR on for the longer lens. Can you tell me when and why to turn that off?

Thanks again!

bruceliv · #8 (**permalink**) 10-23-2010, 12:58 AM

VR incorporates some movement in it's workings. Nikon states, when the camera is mounted on a tripod, turn VR off. If left on, the image could be worse than if you hand-held it.

No, that kind of editing wont work "in camera." I'm not sure if the D40 has double exposure capabilities, and if it did, it would mean a lot of trial and error.

It wouldn't hurt to have some moon files on hand for when you do get software. As you progress, you will suddenly have the urge to do some post-processing on your own -- welcome to the world of digital photography

BTW, my detailed answer above was because I really enjoy your image. The lighting and detail on your water tower is beautiful! You have a really good eye.

Michael_2010 · #9 (**permalink**) 10-23-2010, 01:53 AM

I've seen a lot of people rave about Gimp and it is freeware. Might be a good one to learn with and there are a lot of people at DPS that could answer your questions about the program.