Master Night Film Photography with the Best Film Selection and Settings | Knowledge #89
Cover image by dede dos film
Night photography with a film camera is a unique experience that demands creativity and challenges in low-light conditions. By using the right film and shooting techniques, you can capture beautiful photos with rich details and ambiance, even at night.
This guide provides tips for capturing stunning film photos in the evening and at night.
Image by yNAK
Choosing Film and Basic Settings
When shooting film in low-light conditions like night snaps or nighttime photography, choosing the right film ISO sensitivity is crucial. For nighttime portraits, ISO 400 or 800 color negative film is recommended, while ISO 3200 is suitable for black and white negative film. Generally, match the film's ISO with the camera's ISO setting.
The most basic setting for low-light is to use ISO 800 film, set the aperture to f/2.8, and the shutter speed to 1/60 seconds. Beginners are especially encouraged to start with these settings.
Utilizing Tripods and Remote Shutters
In low-light film photography, minimizing camera shake is key to capturing beautiful photos. Using a tripod is essential for this purpose. Additionally, a remote shutter can help reduce subtle vibrations when pressing the shutter button, resulting in sharper images. This is particularly effective when using a flash or shooting at low shutter speeds.
Image by yNAK
Utilizing Light Sources and Subject Placement
In night photography, effectively utilizing limited light sources is crucial. Streetlights, car headlights, neon lights, or handheld fireworks can be used to highlight subjects and capture dramatic photos.
For example, placing the subject near a light source can reflect light to highlight faces and details. Alternatively, placing the light source behind the subject can emphasize silhouettes. By creatively using light, you can capture compelling photos even in dark settings.
