Getting that perfect night shot isn't always easy, but it is possible
Night time photography can be very intimidating for amateur photographers. Photography is about balancing the amount of light the camera allows to reach the film, using shutter speed (how long the shutter opens) and aperture (how wide the shutter opens). Finding that balance is easy during the day, after all there's plenty of light when the sun is shining. Knowing create that balance when there is little or no light is a whole other issue.
Control Aperture and Shutter Speeds
Streaky lights require a longer shutter speed
Use any of the three common modes--aperture priority, shutter speed priority or manual--to guide how you want light to enter your camera. In most digital cameras, the auto and program modes don't allow the shutter to remain open long enough to take a night-time photo. If you want streaky lights--like the headlights of moving cars--in your photo, use a very long shutter speed and narrow aperture. If you are trying to capture a specific instant in the dark, such as from a firework display, use a faster shutter speed and wider aperture.
Keep Your Camera Steady
Buy a tripod, or use a horizontal surface--such as a table or ledge--to keep your camera steady for night-time photos. Your camera must remain perfectly still the entire time your shutter is open. It is impossible to do this while holding the camera. Once your camera is correctly placed, use a cable release to prevent the camera from shaking while you push the button. Use the self-timer on your camera instead of a cable release if you prefer while photographing still subjects.
Use a Higher ISO
Use a higher ISO setting than you would during the day. The ISO number is an indication of the light sensitivity of the camera's image sensor; a higher number indicates higher sensitivity. This is typically expressed as a range, for example, ISO 100 to 1,600. Adjusting to a higher ISO allows you to select a slower shutter speed or narrower aperture. Be careful going too high with your ISO, however, because the higher sensitivity can result in more noise, or irregularities, in your picture.
Let the Display Be Your Guide
Don't be shy. Take a picture. The greatest advantage of digital over film is the instant feedback you get from your shot. Take a practice picture to determine the changes you need to make. Adjust your aperture up or down one or two f-stops to get a lighter or darker shot. Adjust the shutter speed to get similar effects. Only adjust one or the other at a time, though, so you can see exactly how the change is affecting your picture.
Tags: shutter speed, cable release, higher sensitivity, long shutter, shutter opens, that balance, your camera