Long Exposure Photography

Long Exposure photography is a method of taking pictures that shows the amazing and beautiful things that can now be captured on camera. In this form of photography the shutter of the camera is held open for an extended period of time. This allows stationary elements to captured as well as moving objects, which are captured as blurs.

This image captures rushing water among stationary rocks and scenery. Keeping the shutter open can capture seconds of rushing water, giving it a surreal foggy looking effect.

My favorite kind of long exposure is with light. Keeping the shutter open can also capture the paths of moving light sources.

In this image, the camera is being held one a tripod and pointed at the trail and the sky. The trail is stationary, but as the earth rotates, it appears as if the stars are the ones moving. The camera can then capture their path of light.

Another way of capturing light sources is to use handheld lights, such as flashlights, lasers, or sparklers. This method leaves room for much more creativity. Using a handheld light, you can draw a picture out of light, with the air as your canvas.



In the first two images, art is being created and painted using light. The last captures headlights and taillights of cars driving down a winding road.

In long exposure photography the camera must be completely stead, or the entire image will be blurry. The use of a tripod is essential to a successful photograph. Many cameras have a manual open and close for a shutter. Others have a digital setting where the allotted "open" time is set. If done right, long exposure photography can be a truly amazing masterpiece.

“To photograph is to hold one's breath, when all faculties converge to capture fleeting reality. It's at that precise moment that mastering an image becomes a great physical and intellectual joy.” 
― Henri Cartier-Bresson