Video:How to Photograph Sunsets

Transcript:How to Photograph Sunsets

Hi I'm Chris Davis for About.com.    Sunsets provide a beautiful subject to photograph.  Here are a few tips to try.

Plan Ahead to Photography a Sunset

Before you even set up the camera plan ahead.  Look for a place you think will be interesting.  A location that features the sunset but may open the opportunity to other subjects.  A body of water, a mountain or beach are often used to provide reflections or silhouettes within the image.  Once you have scouted your location check the weather.  Hazy days or right after a rainstorm will provide some dramatic effects as the sun will be seen through the clouds.

Sunsets generally last 30 minutes or so.  Get to your location early and be prepared.   

Photograph from a Tripod

Start with your tripod.  If you intend to capture the dim light at long shutters speeds or zooming in on a particular subject you will absolutely need a tripod to eliminate camera shake.

As the sun starts to set, begin shooting.  Take your time and try a variety of exposures.  Although the camera will meter the light for you, adjusting your aperture or shutter speed can create interesting effects.  This is where you can incorporate the process of bracketing.  It's very easy to do.  For example if you are using the Aperture priority mode take a photo at the suggested meter.  Then take a photo one f-stop higher and one f-stop lower to get slightly different results.

Use the Rule of Thirds

As you are shooting don't forget to try the rule of thirds.  Placing the horizon on the upper or lower third will provide a more pleasing composition.  Furthermore, If you have chosen a location that highlights the sunset but provides the opportunity for silhouetting a main subject continue using the rule of thirds to impact the overall look.

Also consider using a filter.  By adding a colored filter to your lens you will create some highlighted and interesting colors to your sunset.

And most of all keep shooting.  As the sun sets it continues to change, even after it has disappeared beyond the horizon you will get some very interesting and unique shots.

To learn more check us out on the web at About.com. Thanks for watching.