Taking photographs in complete darkness?

[SidewinderINC]

OK, now I know the answer is "use a flash" but I'm after some more information on taking indoor pictures that will come out well / not looking like a flash was obviously used (if that makes sense) in complete darkness.

I don't have a flashgun yet, so will have to invest in one definitely.

Is there anything else that would be essential other than a flash for stuff like this?


Cheers

Matt

[petemc]

Up the ISO. Get a faster lens, like f/2.8 or f/1.4. Shoot near the windows too.

[Jonny69]

Originally Posted by petemc

Get a faster lens, like f/2.8 or f/1.4. Shoot near the windows too.

What does that actually mean? Does that mean it can run a wide aperture at high shutter speeds? Useful in low light conditions right, because it can get a lot more light in, in less time?

On a tripod for example you could just set the aperture as low as it goes and hold the shutter open on the bulb. Same thing?

[SidewinderINC]

well the Sigma 2.8 that I spoke with you about will be my lens at the time (can't afford the L glass and wouldn't want to risk taking it where I'll be shooting anyway)

Near windows might be an issue, but I can probably shoot in the direction of windows


/secretive mode/

[vix]

Originally Posted by SidewinderINC

well the Sigma 2.8 that I spoke with you about will be my lens at the time (can't afford the L glass and wouldn't want to risk taking it where I'll be shooting anyway)

Near windows might be an issue, but I can probably shoot in the direction of windows


/secretive mode/

I smell urbex......

Even if that's not the case, a lot of urbexers shoot in complete darkness and use long exposures coupled with light painting using torches to show the detail.

[Pickers]

Originally Posted by vix

I smell urbex......

my first thought too

[Chuckles]

If you don't want to make it look like a flash was used, get a defuser as well

The other alternative of course is a tripod and long exposure

[SidewinderINC]

Originally Posted by starscream

If you don't want to make it look like a flash was used, get a defuser as well

The other alternative of course is a tripod and long exposure

How good are monopods?

Want to be travelling light/compact.

[Mondo]

Originally Posted by SidewinderINC

How good are monopods?

Want to be travelling light/compact.

Narh.

If its too dark, use a flash or a tripod, just bump up the ISO.

[SidewinderINC]

Originally Posted by Mondo

Narh.

If its too dark, use a flash or a tripod, just bump up the ISO.

Right, can people spec me a compact tripod then Not too pricey, but obviously sturdy enough

I'm after a tripod anyways, but will see if I can borrow a flashgun for the trip.