How to Take a Cityscape Photograph
Make sure the subject (the cityscape) is interesting., Mix it up., Leave yourself room to crop., Use a tripod and be sure it is level., Be sure the sun is behind you., Choose the right time of the day., Use the right exposure., Consider bracketing...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Make sure the subject (the cityscape) is interesting.
Also, have something interesting as a point of interest in the cityscape.
Place it in the middle part of the photo or in the foreground. -
Step 2: Mix it up.
Have some foreground and some background.
Be sure not to have to much of either. , Since you can't have exact control of everything in the photo, you will want the ability to crop it to be exactly how you want it. , Most tripods have a level on them.
Use it.
You don't want to have to fix the horizon later.
Save yourself the trouble by getting it right in the camera. , This will help light the scene to its best.
Having it overhead will flatten the scene and make it very unremarkable. , Take them earlier or later in the day.
The angle of the sun will introduce more texture and interest to your photographs. , Set your exposure reading on the brightest part of the photograph.
This will keep you from overexposing your shot. , Hedge your bets by bracketing your photographs.
This will allow you to create an HDR photograph, if you desire, later. , Either of these will prevent your camera from being shaken when you push the button to take the picture.
Even on a tripod, you will have to worry about camera shake. , This limits hot spots and light reflections off of windows and metal objects. , A good lens can make a huge difference in the results.
Especially in a shot like this. -
Step 3: Leave yourself room to crop.
-
Step 4: Use a tripod and be sure it is level.
-
Step 5: Be sure the sun is behind you.
-
Step 6: Choose the right time of the day.
-
Step 7: Use the right exposure.
-
Step 8: Consider bracketing your shots.
-
Step 9: Consider using a timer or a remote.
-
Step 10: Use a polarizing filter.
-
Step 11: Invest in a good lens.
Detailed Guide
Also, have something interesting as a point of interest in the cityscape.
Place it in the middle part of the photo or in the foreground.
Have some foreground and some background.
Be sure not to have to much of either. , Since you can't have exact control of everything in the photo, you will want the ability to crop it to be exactly how you want it. , Most tripods have a level on them.
Use it.
You don't want to have to fix the horizon later.
Save yourself the trouble by getting it right in the camera. , This will help light the scene to its best.
Having it overhead will flatten the scene and make it very unremarkable. , Take them earlier or later in the day.
The angle of the sun will introduce more texture and interest to your photographs. , Set your exposure reading on the brightest part of the photograph.
This will keep you from overexposing your shot. , Hedge your bets by bracketing your photographs.
This will allow you to create an HDR photograph, if you desire, later. , Either of these will prevent your camera from being shaken when you push the button to take the picture.
Even on a tripod, you will have to worry about camera shake. , This limits hot spots and light reflections off of windows and metal objects. , A good lens can make a huge difference in the results.
Especially in a shot like this.
About the Author
Jessica Martinez
Creates helpful guides on organization to inspire and educate readers.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: