Long Exposures... - DPChallenge Forums

08/09/2003 08:30:30 PM · #1

This is a general question, but applies specifically to Coolpix 5700 users, I guess:

When doing longer exposures (i.e., in excess of say 1/2") in daylight, how do you avoid blowing out (overexposing) all your highlights? I'm using the lowest ISO my camera has (100), and using the smallest aperture I can, and even using the max light reduction, but still can't go below about a half second, and even that blows out in some spots.

Should I be using a filter? Maybe it just can't be done on my cam? Am I forced to wait until the light is lower? I was trying to do some long exposures on a waterfall, and just couldn't get it done. I'd rather find an answer than float my cam over the waterfall, so any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Pedro

bod

08/09/2003 08:42:11 PM · #2

You need a Neutral Density (ND) filter which reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor. They're available in various strengths, I've had decent results with an ND8 in bright sunlight.

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM

08/09/2003 09:05:20 PM · #3

Originally posted by bod:

You need a Neutral Density (ND) filter which reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor. They're available in various strengths, I've had decent results with an ND8 in bright sunlight.

Thanks Bod, you are indeed a complex phenomenon.

BTW, I notice the Canon G3 can go down to at least ISO 50...is this common for Digicams? would that help my situation as well?

Pedro

jimmythefish

Canon EOS-10D

08/09/2003 09:10:17 PM · #4

G3's ISO 50 is more like ISO 100 according to Phil Askey at DPReview.com.

Konador

Canon EOS-500D Rebel T1i

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

08/09/2003 09:12:50 PM · #5

If you can't afford an ND filter, try using a pair of sunglasses :)

Journey

Canon PowerShot G3

08/09/2003 10:40:10 PM · #6

If you don't believe what i say and feel you need to start a forum thread anyway, why bother asking me in a PM? Doh

Panasonic Lumix G 14mm F2.5 ASPH

08/09/2003 10:43:17 PM · #7

Originally posted by Journey:

If you don't believe what i say and feel you need to start a forum thread anyway, why bother asking me in a PM? Doh

Cuz I'm not at home and can't get my e-mail until tomorrow night, which will be too late for the pic i wanna shoot for this week's challenge. I remembered after I sent you the PM...

No offense intended Helene, you know I like you best :)

Pedro

Olyuzi

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7

08/09/2003 10:53:37 PM · #8

Pedro, you could also try a combination of ND filter with a polarizing filter. That would cut out a good deal of light, and the polarizer would get rid of any glare and make the colors more vivid.

08/10/2003 12:57:33 AM · #9

thanks for all the ideas, everyone.

Konodor - I think a 4X ND filter is about $40...I think I can handle that. but good thought anyway :)

Adrian Tung

Canon EOS-10D

08/10/2003 01:17:28 AM · #10

Someone posted on a forum once, instead of carrying a set of ND filters you can carry two PL filters and rotate them to block out as much light as you want.

:)atwl