Taking great photos doesn't mean you need to travel far.
Today, we're gonna practice our long exposure photography skills
right in the comfort of our own home.
We'll go over what to shoot, gear and how to achieve your goals with the correct settings.
But first, let's go back to basics: what is long exposure photography?
[upbeat, pop piano music plays]
Long exposure photography is the style photography using a long duration shutter speed
to create blur in moving objects
like clouds,
waterfalls
and light trails.
But before we head out to remote locations to do this,
we're gonna practice in our own home using the surroundings around us.
We'll use a DIY water feature, the nature around us and we'll try out some light painting.
[music]
I'll be using the Sony a6000 with two kit lenses:
the 55 to 210,
the 16 to 50
and the higher end 16 to 35 f/2.8 G Master.
When shooting long exposure photography, the first thing you have to do is find your moving object.
So let's look around!
Look for any flowing water. I'll be using this DIY water feature here with the water pump,
but you can use anything from a hose to a sprinkler.
Since I'll be using the 55 to 210, I'll be able to frame up just the rocks and the water
to create a perfect waterfall.
[water running] [background music]
When shooting long exposure photography, the goal is to be able to use the longest speed duration
while making sure the photo is not too bright.
So we'll start with using an ISO of 100
Followed by we'll use an f-stop of about f/22,
if your camera will allow it,
to make sure the full frame is in focus
and your photo is really dark.
[water running] [background music]
And now, we'll test out different shutter speeds.
[music]
If the sun is too bright and you have an ND (neutral density) filter,
this would be a good time to use it
to be able to use it even longer shutter speed.
[music]
Pro tip: use a shutter remote like this Vello here to avoid any on-camera movement,
which will give you the best results!
[music]
Building a bonfire is a fun way to hang out with friends,
but it's also a great way to practice your long exposure photography.
So, let's build a bonfire [finger snapping]
And take some photos!
[music]
This is where the shutter remote comes in handy.
If you don't have a shutter remote, use a self-timer,
like about two seconds, to give yourself enough time to press the button and not interrupt the camera.
[music]
Just because it's dark out, it doesn't mean you can't keep photographing!
Light painting is a super popular way to get artistic and unique shots.
Your painting tool can be something as simple as your cell phone flashlight.
Since it's pitch-black out but I want only my letters to show up,
I'll be sticking to an ISO of 100,
my aperture at about f/8
and my speed duration will be between 15 and 20 seconds,
just enough time for you to write your letters.
But remember, when you're writing your letters, you have to either write backwards
or, in post, flip your photo horizontally.
Alright, let's get started. Lights out!
[music]
Practicing long exposure photography is the perfect way to get to know your in-camera settings
and mastering manual mode!
And now, next time you go on that road trip,
you're ready to take that perfect shot!
Tag us in all of your long exposure photos!
And let us know if you'd like to see more videos
like these in the comments below!
I'm Maria, and thanks for watching!
[music]