Equipment
First of all, you need to have a good camera. While any camera that can do time-exposure will work, D-SLR (digital single-lens reflex) models will give you better results. The shutter needs to be able to stay open for a significant amount of time without the batteries draining. The best type of lens to use is a wide-angle lens, such as a 35mm at 20-50mm focal length.
You also need a tripod for your camera. Make sure it is sturdy enough so that it won’t get disturbed or knocked over by the wind – any movement will create wiggles in your star trails.
Finally, you need a cable release so that you can take the photo without moving the tripod. However, some cameras will let you use the self-timer with a long exposure as well.
Set-up
Star-trail photos vary widely depending on the composition of the photo, exposure time, and focal length. You will probably end up experimenting with different settings to see which type of star-trail photos you like the best. Here are some tips to get you started.
On a digital camera, use an ISO between 400 and 800. This will take in the brightness of the stars without keeping the rest of the photo dark. For very long exposures, you may try using a lower ISO. If you’re using film, use slow or medium-speed.
Set your aperture to f/4.0 or f/5.6 This will reduce the glow of the sky, especially from light pollution, and bring out the light of the stars. You should also try to take the photo in a dark place to reduce light pollution.
Try to include other stationary elements in your photo, as this will give it perspective and make it more interesting. Everything from rocks and trees to houses or a simply horizon can work.
Finally, use fully charged batteries and make sure they will last for the length of your photo exposure.
This article was written by Madeline Barbour. She is an experienced photographer who owns the site How to Become a Photographer.
খবর বিভাগঃ
Articles
astrophotography
0 comments: