Originally posted by blackcloudbrew While I might expect that there may be something as analytical as you are looking for, I haven't come across anything like that. What I've typically read is to try exposures of X minutes and evaluate the results then increase/decrease the time, i.e., trial and error. I don't think that there is a one size fits all solution either.
... noted - and same here btw ...
Anyway, I too would be interested in an approach to something more than trial and error for nighttime photography but I think that's a lot of it. Any ideas?
I like that you use the term "approach", and allow me to prefix the word "analytical" in front too, then it's clear that you sensed that the crux of this exercise is about seeking mostly exactly that from the collective ether-brain here;
ie. some solid, real, concrete guidelines that people can actually use and benefit from to have a more than decent chance at constructive night scene type photography for themselves, guidelines and approach 'rules' that can stand the test over the usual rough and ready t&e bandied opinion.
The great thing is that the cameras we all typical use these days can do a pretty good job out in the dark where life can still exist.
And like your fireworks example, to me anyway that's a very typical night scene that people tend to want to capture.
Attempting to describe; I mean that it obviously has d% of darkness element on the given night (such a some or much urban 'ambient' lighting, moon-phase v cloud-cover estimatable factors, perhaps many bright stars to contrast a clearer sky blackness too, etc), in contrast to n% of nearer to camera standout flare-bright explosives in action, 'fairly' predictable in light output, and possibly z% reflected light stray off that onto people, buildings, whatever... to contend and consider too.
Wait. I should not have said the fireworks would be fairly predictable there, obviously they are not. The unexpected and the huge variety differences in light output and colours range of each explosion is their appeal. So how does the cameraphile anticipate what's coming? they can't. Next Q: how does he/she judge or calc the "just right" settings without chance to experiment or take test shot in maybe 1 second so as not to blow it?
John & Jane Photog do not have said "experience" - nor do they live in caves and guess their way through life, they expect, rely on and need basic modern-science guidelines.
To blackcloudbrew: Your experience here would no doubt have described that scenario better, so pls excuse, I was just trying to define some possible constants and variables to clarify (or possibly confuse further?) the debate.
Anyway, so where does one start, considering you the hard earned f'works specialist never left your phone number that is?
How do those elements transfer into tangible manual camera settings so Joe & Jane Tog don't blow that once only chance for capturing the experience or night scene - whatever and wherever? Fish that got away tales don't really make ideal impressions when posted to Flickr or P.F!
And one chance it often is too, so T&E has to stay at home.
.R.
Last edited by Hypocorism; 11-26-2010 at 12:00 PM.