Sunsets/Sunrise Stream - Day 1 - Sunset Photography Basics

Today's Topic: Sunset Photography Basics

Today, we're going to cover the foundations of photographing sunsets/sunrise with your camera - what mode to use, equipment and composition. Don't worry about taking it all in today. We'll cover each step in much more detail during the month.

Never Look Directly At The Sun

I couldn't start this Dash without an important safety tip: Never look directly at the sun unless it's almost set below the horizon. The recommended way to compose your shot is to use your camera's screen. Never use the viewfinder as the camera's lens can concentrate the sun's rays.

Main Article - Sunset Photography Basics

Extra reading (if you have more time):

Article - How To: Sunset Photography (Digital Photo Secrets)
Article - Can I damage my camera by pointing it at the sun? (Digital Photo Secrets)
Article - 12 Tips for Photographing Stunning Sunsets (Digital Photography School)
Article - How to Photograph a Sunset (wikiHow)
Article - Sunset Photography Tips - How to photograph the perfect sunset (SLR Photography Guide)
Article - Complete Beginners Guide to Sunrise and Sunset Photography (Lorelei Web Design)
Article - Sunset photography: how to balance exposures and get accurate colours (Digital Camera World)
Gallery - 27 Beautiful Sunset Pictures (Photography Blogger)

Challenges

What's Next?

I'll send your next topic "Vibrant Sunsets" on 6 August. From that point on, we'll have two topics 'on the go' for the rest of the Dash.

Photo Critiques

Although you have a week to complete the challenge for each topic, it's better to complete the challenge and upload your photo sooner rather than later. I'll be selecting photos from the list of those that have been uploaded for a critique by one of our coaches. I'll share that critique with everyone. So to increase the chances of your image being selected, upload your challenge image quickly.

General Information

For more general information about the Dash, see the Getting Started document.

Dash Insider

If you haven't done so already, I recommend you get involved with Dash Insider - our private community. See your email for the password to access this system, and I have created a few videos showing you how to login and navigate the site.

How to Upload Your Photo

See the third video on the Dash Insider Login Tutorials page for a rundown on how to upload.

Receiving A Great Critique

See the separate post on giving and receiving feedback for help on soliciting great feedback on your images.