my first sunset attempt (2)

[albedo_0_39]

Hi folks. I AM a beginner to photography. I am very interested in sunsets/landscapes primarily but I don't have in-depth knowledge to really carry it off well at the moment. I would appreciate it if someone would either give me pointers and guidance of the correct way to approach sunsets with respect to composition ("thirds" etc?), taking and control of light, aperture etc or point me in the direction of good, detailed tutorials on the net. btw, I am using a Pentax100D (18-55mm lens) which I used to taek this photo, my FIRST attempt at a sunset (circ polariser used). this was taken at Branston Water Park, nr Barton Under Needwood, Staffs. thanks in advance for any help or cc.

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/data/500/medium/IMGP0163b_30pc.jpg

[Bev]

I think you have done very well here, love the sun coming across the water, and the sky formation fisnishes it off nicely.

[mobilevirgin]

Well you're on the right lines. If you know about the rule of thirds, then you know what's wrong with this pic - the line of trees splits it across the middle. But you've also understood that some foreground interest is good.

The trick with sunsets is not always about technique - its about finding a good sunset.

[HIMUPNORTH]

Agree with mobilevirgin that finding the right sunset is crucial. looks like you found the right one but would have been curious to have seen what it was like a little later as the sun descended further.

Disagree about horizon, the sun breaks this "half-way horizon" problem. Rules are there to be broken.

After composition exposure is the next problem and a biggie with sunsets. Either aim for a silhouette or find a way to record all the variations of light. Sometimes this requires filters, in fact most good sunset shots do to get foreground detail recorded as well as rich sunset light.

Good luck and please share your next efforts HERE! :thumbs:

[mobilevirgin]

Disagree about horizon, the sun breaks this "half-way horizon" problem. Rules are there to be broken.


Just goes to show there are always at least 2 different ways of looking at things

:):)

[albedo_0_39]

yes, thanks people.I shall take your points on board. obviously,to really make it all count I know that I have got to practice regularly. On yes, with reference to the 'what the sunset was like later'. well, I actually gave up with it , due to aeroplane vapour trails being left all over the sky, which destroyed its natural look.

I hope to produce better ones in the near future. I do agree with one thing that has been said....and that is ....."waiting for the right sunset".

has anyone any comments about the exposure levels in the shot?

thanks again

Gaz