Low Light Photography

STEP 1 - LEARN Shooting photos in low light is difficult. While you learn tips for taking better photos today, take notes by filling out the Low Light 7-Minute Starter Activity. Take the sheet with you when you photograph events.

LOW LEVEL LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Not enough light = lots of blur, graininess and poor focus. Your best weapon against low light is ISO (how sensitive your camera is to light) In very low light situations, use a higher numbered ISO (800-3200). Where there is lots of light, use a lower numbered ISO (800 and below)

OUTDOOR SPORTS: UNDER STADIUM LIGHTS Andrew Baggett, Westlake High School [TX]

OUTDOOR SPORTS: UNDER STADIUM LIGHTS Beginner Mode: P or Sports Experienced: TV, M Long telephoto lenses above 135 mm tend to blur due to slower shutter speeds. ISO: 800, 1600, 3200 (the longer the lens, the faster your ISO; however, faster ISOs cause more noise or graininess) Flash may be used for sideline and crowd shots, but likely will not help with field shots since built-in flashes reach 30 ft at best. Use a monopod to hold the camera steady!

INDOOR SPORTS: GYMS Nathanial Brown, Boone High School [IA]

INDOOR SPORTS: GYMS Beginner Mode: P or Sports Experienced: TV, M Lens: Use a normal or wide-angle lens and as close as possible to the action. ISO: 400, 800, 1600, 3200; work with the lowest ISO that allows for the least amount of blurring Flash may be used, but can cause harsh shadows and redeye. Use only if needed. Position yourself where the action is toward you, not at angles.

INDOOR: CLASSROOMS, HALLWAYS, AUDITORIUMS, ETC. Katie Blanks, Round Rock High School [TX]

INDOOR: CLASSROOMS, HALLWAYS, AUDITORIUMS, ETC. Beginner Mode: P Experienced: AV, M Lens: use a normal or wide-angle lens ISO: 400, 800, 1600 (more windows=lower number) Flash: be sure to communicate with an instructor/director before using flash. You may be able to use it during dress rehearsals.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Arrive early. Set up before the event. Practice. Get to an event early enough that you can take some practice photos before beginning. When doing so, note the settings you are using and make small adjustments until you have just the right settings for the perfect shot.

STEP 2 - PRACTICE In the next week, take at least 50 photos in low light conditions.

LOW LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Take at least 50 photos outside under stadium lights or inside in the classroom, auditorium, etc. where light conditions are poor Goal: At least five photos that can be used. Remember to use your knowledge of composition techniques like the Rule of Thirds, bird’s-eye view, worm’s-eye view, repetition, leading lines and framing to create photos that can be used in the publication.

STEP 3 - DO Upload your photo to be used in the yearbook. Be sure to place the photo in the correct folder and tag it so that others can use the photo in the book. Remember: only high quality photos should be uploaded to our photo library! Make your photo awesome!