Set up at sunset for shooting the blue hour and beyond…
To determine the best nightscape composition, and to have a few alternative planned, scout out locations ahead of time. I like to set up at sunset and catch the beautiful golden light, however it’s twilight that I’m truly waiting for. Make several test shots to find your composition during the scouting. It’s much easier to have a plan before it gets dark. The photograph is your story, a visual narration of what you experience, and your interpretation of the scene. Your passion about your photograph is what will make it compelling to others! Don’t hesitate to try an angle or perspective that makes your composition more expressive. I photographed Havana from the balcony of the 24th floor of a hotel that I scouted out earlier that day. I felt the higher perspective and use of a 16mm fisheye lens created more interest, and portrays more of a story about the cityscape of Havana.
The photo of the El Morro lighthouse in Cuba was taken at sunset, while I was scouting a few ideas for the blue hour. The golden hour is a nice warmup for the upcoming blue hour. I decided that I liked this composition best, and followed up the shot below. Scouting locations and setting up at sunset gives you an opportunity to make decisive shots for the blue hour and beyond.
