Long Exposure Photography is an art. If you’re shooting long exposure photos, the chances you get some blur in the shot are greatly increased. Many times, it’s a welcomed effect and often the intention. That being said, we can sometimes get some less desirable blur in our long exposures.

Here are three quick ways you can you combat undesirable blurring while keeping the blur you want.

Consider The Composition When Doing Long Exposure Photography

Of course, it goes without saying the composition of your photo plays a huge role in the aesthetic quality. You should always give a healthy dose of consideration to the composition. And when you’re doing this, think beyond simple framing. Take a look at the individual elements in the photo. For example, are there trees or plants in the image that sway in the wind and blur during the long exposure?

Is that an intended effect? If it’s not, get creative and find a workaround. Or, perhaps, embrace it and make it the star of the show!

Regardless,  take into consideration how a long exposure is going to affect everything in the image, not just the bigger picture.

Stealthy Shutter Release Improves Long Exposure Photography

Another common culprit of unsatisfactory long exposure landscapes is camera shake. This occurs as a result of jostling when you press the shutter button. Avoid this with a shutter release cable. A wired shutter release, wireless shutter release, or even an app on your phone allows you to fire your trigger.

One important thing to note about shutter releases and long exposure is the max speed.  If you are taking an exposure over 30 seconds long, you should use a remote. Many camera exposure speeds max out at 30 seconds. However,  the bulb feature and wireless remote are a good workaround.

Secure The Tripod When Doing Long Exposure Photography

A sturdy tripod will take you a long way when it comes to long exposure Photography. As a result, I recommend investing in the best quality tripod you can afford. However, if you don’t have several hundred dollars to spend on a tripod, you can strengthen the tripod you have by securing it with weights.

Do your best to weigh down your tripod. If necessary, hang some kind of weight from it. I have seen all kinds of things used as a weight including a backpack, camera bag, a plastic bag filled with rocks and sand, and even a large rock. Carry six or seven feet of paracord in your camera bag so you’re always prepared.

Just make sure the weight touches the ground so it doesn’t swing in the wind. The line from the tripod to the weight should be fairly taut. And don’t use a weight so heavy that it breaks your tripod. Try to find just the right amount of weight to steady things up without putting excessive strain on your tripod.

Stay Patient When Working with Long Exposure Photography

The more you practice your long exposure photography the easier it will get. So on that note, don’t take it too hard if you don’t get the results you’re looking for right away. Be patient and allow yourself to explore new ideas and techniques.

The post Long Exposure Photography Secrets to Give You Outstanding Results appeared first on PhotographyPla.net.