CHRISTMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

by Adrienne Lubbe

You MUST use a tripod (or stable surface) for Christmas light photography WITHOUT A FLASH.

Change the SHUTTER SPEED

Slow the shutter speed down by setting the dial to TV (shutter priority mode) and then adjust the second dial to 1", 2" or 3" (1 - 3 seconds). If you do not use a tripod for this length of shutter speed, you will get camera shake (the photo will be out of focus.)

ZOOM into your Christmas Tree

Using the P setting (Programme mode) and with the camera mounted on a tripod, take the picture and while picture is being taken, turn the lens as if you were zooming in to take a close-up photo. This will create the streaks. The longer the shutter is open, the longer the streaks. (See how to change shutter speed on the left.) You may want to take a few photos like this so that you can practice a little. I prefer the one with shorter streaks.

Change the switch on the lens from AF (auto focus) to M (manual). Using the P or TV settings on the camera (see explanations left) and a tripod, adjust the focus to be blurry. This photo can be enlarged and used as a background for the title of your page.

DON'T FORGET TO TAKE PHOTOS OF:

The individual Christmas tree decorations. This can be done in daylight with a flash.

You can then use the photos to make this

The food. (You can add your recipes to the page).

The table before everyone sits down.

The chef/s in the kitchen

The children opening their presents.

The aftermath of opening the presents.

A group photo of everyone there on the day.