Long exposure in daylight - is that possible?
Long exposures are a popular stylistic device for many photographers, especially in the dark. But even in daylight, corresponding effects can be achieved with an SLR camera. We show how it works the easiest.
Long exposure time due to appropriate camera settings
The shutter speed results not only from the brightness of the surroundings, but also from the aperture and ISO value that are set on the camera. As a result, you can stretch the exposure time if you adjust the relevant settings manually.
- Set the ISO value on your camera as low as possible. Usually the minimum is 100 or even 50.
- Switch to aperture priority or aperture priority mode. Then set the f-number to the highest possible value. Depending on the lens, this ranges between f / 22 and f / 36.
- Tip: If you use the 18-55mm kit lens of a Canon or Nikon camera, for example, the maximum f-number also varies depending on the focal length: While at 18mm only one f / 22 aperture is possible, you can zoom to the maximum -Stage to aperture f / 36.
- Also keep in mind that the ambient brightness varies greatly from place to place during the day. For example, a thick forest is much darker than an open field. Accordingly, longer exposures are also possible.
Use of an ND filter for artificial darkening
A so-called ND filter offers an alternative for ambitious photographers. This is placed in front of the lens and darkens the image. On the camera, this is compensated for with a longer exposure time.
- ND filters come in different strengths. The number of filters (eg "ND8") indicates the factor by which the picture is darkened. The shutter speed of the camera is also increased accordingly - in this case, it is 8 times as long as the exposure without a filter.
- When buying a screw-on ND filter, also pay attention to the diameter. You have to choose this to match the size of your lens.
We have summarized further creative ideas for working with long exposure for you in this practical tip.