Dreamer's Guide to BULB Mode & Remote Shutter Release 。。。

I have been learning how to do long exposure shots & decided to write a dummy's guide abt it based solely on my personal experience...

Remember not too long ago, I decided to experiment wif this function ~ "Bulb" mode in my canon dslr. Wat the hell is this, u may ask? Well, our normal shutter speed usually can only go to 30 seconds, hence if u wana do an exposure longer than 30 seconds, you need to set your cam on Manual first, then push the dial 1 step down fr the 30s, it will show BULB on your LCD. When u see pros' shots of brilliant fireworks, they tend to utilise this Bulb mode to capture the fireworks. I had yet test that on fireworks as i previously do not have a remote shutter release.

BULB Mode Setting

Canon Remote Shutter Release

Now, let me explain about this wonderful gadget, which is a small & light-weight remote control that you use together wif the Bulb mode. Pls chk your user manual for the remote's model number as it may varies across models. Generally, the manufacturer's brand is more costly, ard twice the price of a 3rd party brand (in sg). Basically, the remote functions exactly like your shutter button, but you could lock it, while the shutter remains opens....more light from the surroundings will get into the sensor. So far, i practiced it mainly on night scenary & it had made a difference to my photos. The remote will also help to reduce the slight shake that happen when u press the shutter button. Also ensure that you had set your dslr on a stable tripod.

Attach the remote here!

With the above jargons explained, the next time you are on a outdoor shooting....you can experiment wif the Bulb mode. In the Manual mode, you need to set the aperture first, can try to start at F11,  ISO 100. The shutter exposure time will need to play around wif it & see which effect you prefer... if you r not too sure as your LCD tends to be brightly lit at night, take your pics in RAW format too. This will allow you to adjust the exposure & white balance in the canon's software. Below are 2 examples I just took over the weekend:

@ F8, ISO 100, 24 seconds

Does this pic gives you an island feel? Day or Night abit confusing rite? I like how the full moon shone thru the clouds & due to the long exposure, it looks like sunlight too!

@ F11, ISO 100, 20 seconds

A shot of the Star Cruise, see how the water became more smooth & reflective like a mirror. The streaks of light off the water was created unintenionally as a boat moved off during the exposure time....but i felt it created more interest to the foreground. In the sky, the slow movement of the cable cars created a streak of smokey feel!

Hope you had enjoy reading this short article & happy shooting!