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Canon EOS-40D
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
 03/08/2004 11:38:28 AM · #1
I am seeking suggestions for taken photographs in low light without blowing out the sky. I made two attempt with apperture priority. I set one at F/8 (ISO 50, 1/8 sec exposure) and got the building lit up nicely but blew out the sky...



Another attempt with F/4 (ISO 50, 1/200 sec exposure) captured the sky very nicely, but left the building too dark.



Is there some magic setting to have the building properly exposed and maintain the details of the sky? Or am I asking to have my cake and eat it too? I guess I could always mix the two in photoshop or dodge the building on the later photo. But if there is a 'basic editing' way to do it, that would be best.

Thanks.
Sony Alpha a6400
Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ OSS
 03/08/2004 11:39:48 AM · #2
The magic setting you are looking for is not in the camera. It's knowing what time of day is appropriate for making the photo you want.
 03/08/2004 11:50:50 AM · #3
if this is the shot you want to keep you could combine the images so you have the building lit up how you want with the sky from the other image.

but as setz said, the time of day is more important to know.

My girlfriend thinks in crazy (in a good way) beacuse i run out of the house at odd hours to take photos of certain things.

James
Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT
Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon
 03/08/2004 12:26:15 PM · #4
Obviously, getting a correct exposure by shooting at the right time is always the best to do. But you could adjust your picture with the level command in photoshop. I hope you don't mind but i did it to show the result it can produce. If you want the exact steps and settings to do it with your original just PM me.


Canon EOS-60D
Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
03/08/2004 01:05:30 PM · #5
depending on the application you could use
a Nutral Density Grad filter.
Cokin - P are probably the most common.
In this application you would have to sacrifice
proper exposure of the Arch.

Message edited by author 2004-03-08 13:11:33.
Canon EOS-40D
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
 03/08/2004 01:21:04 PM · #6
That does look better nicklevy, the exact steps aren't necessary. That particular picture isn't the one I am interested in. I was just seeking advice for future shots, particularly instances of shooting against a sunset red sky. Using filters may be the way to go. When aiming for the sunset, you are limited to the timing. I could try changing the time in my camera, but something tells me you can't fool it so easily. ;)

Thanks all for the advice.
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