Aim for dynamic images

Adopt these pro techniques for creative composition and colour to create images that go beyond the basics

One of the biggest reasons many images featuring highly dominant subjects, such as the night sky, fail is that the photographer has incorrectly used this visual power within the frame. While a composition that clearly centres on the astro components of a scene is a logical choice for example, the strength of this subject is likely insufficient to continue producing original work, with unique impact. It is easy to become lazy in terms of creative composition, instead relying on those attractive elements to lead the story of the shot. As photographers we need to consider what the real subject is within a scene – which in the aforementioned situation may well be the sky, but only as one element in the wider landscape. In any photograph it is important to ensure that all image elements work together as components linked by either contrasts or similarity. One of the challenges of low-light work is that spontaneity is not always possible, due to the requirement for a tripod setup or extra consideration of alternative support. This extra time can be used as an advantage however, if allocated to looking beyond the obvious areas of a scene and styling the image in a conceptual way.

It is possible to adopt a three-point system of composition, exposure and colour. Firstly find a way to frame your scene that makes the most of the low-light atmosphere, taking into account shadow direction and density. Experiment with perspective by working references for scale into the frame – a popular choice is to include a person in the image. Next, think about brightness and decide if a

narrow or expanded dynamic range would better suit the tone of the current scene. Enhancing too much shadow detail can reduce drama, yet expanding the tonal range slightly beyond that of human vision can be greatly effective in astro landscapes. Try making the interplay of light and shadow your main focal point, which is a useful strategy in busy street scenes, when identifying one main subject in a colourful night cityscape is difficult. Finally decide if a centred colour balance is best or if a cool or warm bias would be of benefit.

Above right HOLD THE DARKNESS This image successfully conveys the limited ambient lighting of the landscape, maintaining the trueto-life atmosphere. A brighter exposure, while revealing more detail, would have reduced impact

Above PERFECT TIMING Low-light landscapes and cityscapes often havemore depth if shot in twilight or pre-dawn hours, when there is naturalcolour in the sky