Sunset at the lake

Sunset, Gotts Point

We have had some great sunsets lately, and I love being out at the lake when they happen. No matter how many sunsets I photograph, or see for that matter, I am always wanting to see more. Each one is different and unique. Photographing the sunset to capture its beauty and intensity can be somewhat difficult as well. There are a few things we can do to enhance our vision and capture an image that is more than just another sunset.

First, I want to make sure that I know what the main subject is. Is it the sunset or is it something else with the sunset as the backdrop? Nearly always I will have some other element in the image, but most of the time it is secondary to the sunset, however it is just as important as the sunset. Placement of the foreground elements must be carefully selected.

Second, shoot when the balance of light between foreground and background is ideal. Do you want a complete silhouette or do you want to see detail and color in the foreground elements? In the image above, I wanted to see detail, so I waited until the light on the rocks and trees were about 1.5-2 stops darker than the sunset, and then I made the photograph. Had I waited another 5 minutes, then the trees and rocks would have been completely black. There is very little time to work if you are looking at this kind of balance. You must be set up before the light gets where you want it. A spot meter helps in determining the light ratio and know when to shoot.

Third, use a tripod and cable release. This can not be emphasized enough. I am a firm believer in tripod use. I lock the camera mirror up and use a cable release nearly all of the time. It makes for sharper images. It forces me to slow down and think. I like to make every shot count. Editing is easier this way. I have fewer photographs, but am able to print a very high percentage of what I shoot. I like it that way.

Using these techniques will allow you to do almost everything in camera. You will have very little editing and Photoshop work to do on the image after importing to the computer. This saves a tremendous amount of time and energy as well increases final image quality.