In cityscape or landscape photography, aperture is used more compared to shutter speed, because depth of field can only be calibrated using correct aperture to achieve back to front sharpness. But when we are heading towards the art of coastal cityscapes, the shutter speed should also be given consideration because it controls the amount of blur or motion we capture in the sea water movements. This reflects the look of final image.
The Shutter speed you choose depends on the scene type in your composition and the effect you have in your mind.
Let’s say if you want to create drama with large waves hitting the stones. For this you will look for the higher shutter speed (1/500sec to 1/2000sec) to freeze the water movement which also depends upon the height of the waves.
Now let’s talk about a cityscape through coastal view, especially in low light condition where you also like to use the minimum possible ISO; say 50.
Most important for such shot is that you must carry a sturdy tripod to avoid any camera shaking. You need that long exposure because you want to smoothen the water, reflect the lights and buildings in proper exposed lengths.
Don’t just depend on one setting, try different options until you get what you are looking for; your DSLR is capable of providing you with endless possibilities.
Whether you want to use aperture priority or manual mode is up to you. For myself I always go with manual mode because it gives me more flexibility.
You can stick with aperture priority which is also considered a practical exposure mode because it gives you the capability to control the depth of field you want. Let’s say f/11 to f/16 are best for most wide angle views and the camera will automatically adjust the shutter speed to achieve the correct exposure, which can be slowed down depending upon the available light and your camera light metre settings.
Sometimes you want to go even slower but the light won’t allows you and this is where the ND filters comes into action, giving you more options to go many stops lower. The possibilities are endless, experiment with different effects. Here are some photos that show you the variety of effects that can be achieved.
LOCATION: Abu Dhabi Marina
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Lens: 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
Focal Length: 85mm
F-stop: 11
ISO: 50
Shutter Speed: 30 seconds
COMPARISON SET OF DIFFERENT SHUTTER SPEEDS:
