Low Light Photography: 5 Tips

Photography Tips

Low light conditions have great potential for producing astounding images. However, working in such conditions can be challenging. While high end gear do help out a bit in overcoming the challenges, they can be heavy on the pocket. However, with the right techniques, even budget friendly cameras and lenses can get you some amazing low light shots. Photographer Dan Watson shares with you 5 things to know to photograph and focus better in low light using any camera:

Taking photos in low light is as much about knowing how to use your gear, as it is about owning high end gear. If you’ve got a cheap 35mm or a 50mm lens that opens to around f/1.8 or f/2, you’ll be amazed to know how well they can perform. You don’t need an expensive f/1.4 or f/1.2 lens after all. Apertures like f/1.8 and f/2 allow plenty light to the sensor that can help focus the camera better and quicker. Similarly, keep in mind that not all the focus points in your camera are equal. The center auto focus point usually performs the best even in dimly lit conditions. You can work with that and use the focus and recompose technique. Understand and try out the strengths of the gear that you already possess, and you won’t need expensive solutions for low light photography.

Watson also shares how understanding your camera’s ISO performance will give you the confidence to bump up to higher numbers. After all a little bit of noise is much better than a blurry image. And if all the techniques that you try fail, one concrete solution is to add light. Invest in a portable LED video light that you can pop out anywhere. Besides allowing your camera to focus better, the additional light will help in drawing attention to your subject.

These tips from Dan can really come in handy if you’ve been having trouble shooting in low light conditions. Be sure to give them a try and you’ll understand why expensive gear aren’t always the only solution.