How to Photograph by Candlelight

Photographs taken by candlelight have a beautiful, warm and even romantic feel to them. While a breathtaking effect, candlelight photography is a very difficult technique to master. It requires practice, experimentation to find the perfect photo composition, and a lot of patience. If becoming successful at candlelight photography is your goal, start with these steps and you're well on your way.

Things You'll Need

• Candles
• Tripod

Instructions

1. Turn off the flash on your digital camera. You can produce the effect you desire in candlelight photographs only when the candles are your main light source.

2. Minimize motion blur by using a tripod or stable surface for your camera, having a still subject and eliminating any breeze or wind (to keep the candle flames still). Because of the low light, your camera will have to use a slower shutter speed, which means it will capture any movement in the photograph.

3. Allow the candles to burn for a while and obtain longer wicks before taking pictures. This will produce a brighter and more apparent candle flame.

4. Add more light to your photograph as desired by using more candles. Natural reflectors, white objects such as a wall, ceiling or tablecloth, are also helpful in creating more light.

5. Experiment to obtain the photo composition you desire. Repositioning the candles, changing the shutter speed and adjusting the white-balance on your camera will all provide different results.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid harsh shadows on your subject by spreading the candles out rather than positioning them all in one place.