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| Category: | Landscape and Travel |
Photographing frost and ice - Photographer David Clapp gives ePHOTOzine a few tips on capturing frost.
Posted: 27th January 2010
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When's the best time for photographing frost and why?
"Dawn shooting is the best time for ice and frost. Ensure you get there before the sun is up as there are fantastic opportunities to be had."
When you're photographing frost does the sun always have to be behind you?
"No, not at all, direct light and side light are extremely complimentary as the ice and frost glistens. Literally any angle is worth experimenting with."
How do you keep yourself and your kit dry and warm?
"Where two pairs of socks, quality gloves and use some chemical hand warmers or you can be extremely uncomfortable. Don't worry about your camera gear at all, when going from warm to cold, but be prepared for condensation when returning home. Leave your camera in the bag to acclimatise."
Photographing ice/frost can produce grey looking images, how can you stop this happening?
"Always check the histogram to ensure a healthy exposure, but when shooting in Av mode simply expose +1stop to +1.5stops to make the ice glisten."
Where are the best locations for both good landscape shots and more close up work?
"Reservoirs, lakes, rivers and mountains (if you are lucky enough to live near them) are good as colder night time temperatures occur where water is present. Look for frosted reeds, branches and places were water splashes as these can be dripping with icicles and interesting features."
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What lenses do you use and why?
"A standard 90mm macro lens is your best friend when shooting ice and frost, but it’s also possible to get literally the same effect from a medium zoom (like a 70-200mm) and a full set of extension rings. These make a great macro alternative and considerably reduce the closest focusing point, especially on a budget."
Should photographers use a tripod/monopod for this type of work?
"A tripod is utterly essential, as the best images are rendered in lower light levels, but with Canon now shipping the new 100mm IS macro, things are looking less restrictive. Shooting fine detail is all about sharpness, so with good technique and a well thought-out approach it will become second nature to make some stunning shots."
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Do dark backgrounds work best?
"Yes they do help, but it’s not essential. As icicles are translucent, a darker background can help, but it's all about trying things out. Photographers often carry cards and other aids to change the background to suit, so experiment."
How can post-production help?
"Playing with colour temperature in particular is a good way to induce a colder feeling in your ice images. Play with contrast to deepen the tones and lift the highlights, as this will give greater definition to patterns and texture."
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