Night photography basics: try it yourself

1. Tripod Essential

Use tripod or steady surface for sharp night shots.

2. High ISO Test

Shoot at ISO 3200; see acceptable noise level for your camera.

3. Long Exposure

With the camera securely supported, try a several-second exposure of a scene containing moving lights, traffic or moving water. Static streetlights will remain static; it is the moving light sources that create trails.

4. Manual Focus

Autofocus fails at night; focus on bright light, then switch to MF.

5. Light Painting

Use flashlight to “paint” a subject during long exposure.