Rain.

Snow.

Fog.

Freezing rain.

We’ve seen it all this winter here in Lake Chelan. Though it seems there’s no end in sight to these cold, dark and dreary days, winter continues to bless us with inspiring beauty.

Low Light Photography Tips

Light is the single most important element in photography. A photographer’s ability to capture and work with light can make or break a photograph.

Intimidated about shooting in less than ideal lighting situations? Having difficulty nailing focus and proper exposure while shooting sans tripod? Embrace the darkness, shadows and dramatic beauty that come with shooting in low light. Here are a few tips to get you started in handheld low light photography:

Use a large aperture. Make the most of available light – increase your aperture by setting your f-stop to the smallest number to let more light, and more of the scene you’re capturing, into your camera’s sensor.

Use higher shutter speeds to create sharper images. Avoid motion blur and camera shake by using higher shutter speeds. A minimum shutter speed of 1/200th-1/250th of a second should do the trick when shooting handheld in everyday situations, though lenses equipped with vibration reduction make it possible to shoot at even slower speeds.

Use a higher ISO. Increase your camera sensor’s sensitivity to light by using a higher ISO; making it easier for your camera to capture images in lower light environments.

Focus manually. Cameras often have a difficult time auto-focusing in low light situations. Use a flashlight to assist or take complete control and focus manually, checking your LCD screen to ensure that you’ve achieved proper focus.

Low light photography is equal parts challenging and fun. Arm yourself with knowledge, push yourself and get out there and shoot!

………………………

I’m teaming up with Rebecca of Bumbles & Light, on another inspiring adventure as we photograph our way through winter with the Nurture Photography Challenge - a seasonal photo challenge series chock full of tips and tutorials, inspiring weekly prompts, personal feedback and encouragement.

Just a few details:

All are welcome regardless of skill level, camera equipment or geographic location.

Share your favorite images inspired by our weekly prompts each Friday and grab our lovely button while you’re at it!

The linky will remain open from 9am Friday – 9am Thursday CST. Don’t forget to visit and comment on the previous entry in the linky list.

We’re sharing the photography love and showcasing our talented photographers by pinning some of your lovely photos to our Nurture Photography Inspiration Board.

The Nurture Photography Challenge has taken to Facebook! Stop by, “like” our new Facebook fan page, ask questions and share your work on our wall as well.

We love Instagram just as much as you do! We’ll be on the lookout for your beautiful winter photos, so be sure to use the #nurturephoto hashtag. We’ll share a few favorites on Instagram each week, sending a little bit of love your way.

Next week’s prompt will be White/Minimalism. For a complete list of prompts, head on over to the Nurture Photography Challenge Page.