One of the best ways to shoot lights is to do it at a time when the contrast between the lights and the background isn't too great. So, shooting at dusk might offer greater possibilities and eliminate the need for flash. This will, of course, give you a contrast range that will include the lights and the surroundings.
If, however, you're interested in just the lights with a very dark or black background, then, of course, shoot later in the evening, and meter for the lights and open up a stop or so, depending on the film used. If you have a spot meter, this becomes a simple matter. If not, get as close to the lights as possible and take your reading from there. Depending on the light/dark ratio and the pattern of your meter, you may need to stop down a little to catch the lights in all their glory. Stay away from flash at it will degrade the contrast between the lights and the background, and if you're in doubt of the proper exposure, bracket wherever possible. Make a note of the exposure and f-stops used, see which photos look the best, and then you'll have the information for similar shots in the future. Since you didn't mention what film type you'll be using, it's hard to give specific recommendations. However, here are a couple of sites to visit that may give better advice: http://www.christmasfanatic.com/photographing_lights.htm http://www.night.net/christmas/f-lights.html I remember all the wonderful trips to The Bronx Zoo that I took with my parents, so many years ago. Have fun ... Amita Guha wrote: > > We're going to the Bronx Zoo tomorrow night to > look at a display of holiday lights. How would I > shoot something like this? Do I use a flash? > Should I bring my monopod and do long exposures? -- Shel Belinkoff mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.earthlink.net/~belinkoff/pow/enter.html http://home.earthlink.net/~belinkoff/cameras/pentax_repair_shops.html - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
