TOP TIPS FOR NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
Tripods
Image stabilisation systems are becoming ever more effective, but there’s always going to be a limit on the slowest shutter speed for which you can hand-hold the camera and still obtain a sharp image. Once exposure times lengthen beyond about ¼ second, the camera will need to be mounted on a tripod… and the sturdier the better. Lightweight tripods may well be easier to carry around, but they can flex and create vibrations which will be problematic when making long exposures. Make sure the tripod is securely set-up and locked off… even the tiniest of movements will create blur and soften detailing. Use the foot spikes for a more solid location on soft ground; some photographers will also suspend a sandbag from the centre column for added dampening.
Once the camera is on the tripod, adjust the tripod head’s position as desired, but use the tripod’s tilt/pan controls… don’t try to move the camera for this, as it will loosen the attachment, potentially causing the camera to move slightly during an exposure.Tripod heads with quick-release plates are a good option if you’re planning to do a lot of night photography. Once the camera (or lens) is securely fitted to the plate (tighten the mounting bolt as much as you can), it can then be very quickly and easily fitted to the
