Sal’s little brother is in town right now, so after we put Roman to bed the boys played NBA 11 on PS3 or something like that (not really my thing) so I set out on a mission. I have wanted to take a picture of Ridgecrest at night for a while, and tonight gave me the perfect opportunity. I learned a lot. Like I have no idea what I’m doing, but I’m learning! Trial and error right? This picture was taken on top of the roof of the truck and what you see on the bottom of the picture is the reflection. I’m sure this picture wont win a contest but I think its frikin awesome.
This was my attempt at a self-portrait tonight. It didn’t turn out like I thought it would, but again, I like the look and plan to play at night again sometime soonish.
On another note. Sal, Cadena, Keith, Roman, and Rilynn signed up to walk for the March of Dimes this April. It is very near and dear to all of our hearts and I’m looking forward to it. Check it out and help support the cause if you want.
Miss Morgan's 365 Photo Project 
Feb 04, 2011 @ 08:01:24
Trial, error, and lots of practice are the way to go. I think you did good. I especially like the last shot (the sense of movement in it).
Feb 04, 2011 @ 21:42:26
Thank you Robin. I think I have another 200 some days to go, so lots of practice is coming my way hehe.
Feb 04, 2011 @ 09:04:37
I am glad you decided to share this shots in spite of the shots didn’t turn out well.
Few suggestions – use tripod for night time shots, choose a low aperture and long exposure to get the “burst” effect from the street lights and lastly, try shooting during the “magic hour”. That should give a nice effect from the clouds in the shot..good luck!
As you said, keep trying.
Feb 04, 2011 @ 21:41:32
My tripod should be here Wednesday (Yay!) so I plan on trying again next weekend. I will definately use your suggestions. Thank you for the encouragement!
Feb 04, 2011 @ 15:11:21
I think, the best way to learn is by doing. Sasi’s comment is really good – it’s something I’ve been wanting to try myself. Good luck with your future attempts!
Feb 04, 2011 @ 21:39:49
Thank you Jolene. Gotta start somewhere right? 🙂
Feb 04, 2011 @ 17:40:56
Trial and error is the only way to go! The first time for any kind of shooting (or processing) is a trial, a starting point – then you can figure out where to go from there. Nice shot!
Feb 04, 2011 @ 21:37:50
Thank you Holly! I just started doing this photography thing, but Im not sure you can ever stop learning with this!
Feb 05, 2011 @ 06:53:22
I love the last shot!! In addition to Sasi’s comments, shoot in either manual or bulb (well, that is, if your camera has those options…I forget which camera you are using). Start with a low ISO to reduce the noise that will be caused by leaving the shutter open. Since you will be using a tripod, I would suggest start out at the lowest ISO possible (100/200 for most cameras). Manual focus, usually around infinity (I say around cause I read somewhere that you should go to infinity then back it off a tad…? who knows). I know Sasi said a low aperture but keep in mind that depending on what you are shooting (what you are going for that is), you may want to use a high one. The city night shots I have taken are usually around f/18 – f/22. A tripod is a must, but the roof of the truck works! 😛
Having said all that, here’s the most important part….HAVE FUN!! Play, use different setting and again…have fun! 😀
Okay, I do have one more suggestion. It always cracks me up when people with camera’s leave a cool scene after the sun has gone down! You can still get amazing colours 15 minutes, 30 minutes (you get the idea) after the sun has gone down (you will have your shutter open longer)!! It is the magic hour after all!!
Feb 05, 2011 @ 21:31:36
I have the Rebel T1i. I cant wait to get the tripod in to try everyone’s suggestions. This blog has been such a great help since everyone has been so willing to help :). I need to learn how to use the bulb setting because I would love to try and do star trails some day. Thank you again for all of your help!!