Night Hawk Shooter

Lighting is everything in photography and without it we would have a dark, blank canvas in place of our image. In addition, wouldn't you know the word “photography “derives from the Greek and means, literally,” light writing?

Therefore, one would think once the golden light of the fading sun is gone, most photographers head home for the day sans light. However, just because there's no daylight doesn't mean there aren't great shots waiting for us in the dark of the night (possibly a mugger too so pay attention to your surroundings just to be safe).

In my opinion, when photographers head home at dusk they miss out on some of the most exciting and visually stunning photography they could shoot. Personally, I've always loved capturing ribbons of light from passing traffic, the blur of a spinning Ferris wheel from a local carnival or a dull building that pops to life when evening comes.

Yes, there are challenges for night shooting but nothing different than shooting in broad daylight. With nighttime photography one is still concerned with aperture, speed, and ISO settings. Furthermore,unlike film in days past, digital photographers don't have to worry about reciprocity failure with their night photography. (The term means that progressively more light has to reach the film as the exposure time increases-- leading to diminishing returns compared to shorter exposures).

However, given that, there is a trade off with digital between depth of field, exposure times and image noise. Now, on the plus side with digital you get instant feedback and gratification. One also has the ability to adjust the exposure until they are satisfied with the results.

Lastly, get inspired (pack your Mace and tripod) and head out into the evening light. I have included some samples from a recent adventure. Fast lenses, long exposures, and low ISO's equals great shots.