Master the BULB mode – Long exposure photography

If you really want to master photography, understanding the BULB mode is essential. With this special mode, you can significantly extend exposure times and capture creative light patterns that are not possible in traditional photography. You may not encounter this mode on every camera, so it is important to master the basics to fully exploit your camera's potential.

Key Insights

• The BULB mode allows long exposures by extending the exposure time beyond 30 seconds.
• You can activate the BULB mode either directly through the mode dial or the exposure settings (TV/S mode).
• The exposure time is controlled by holding down the shutter button. For longer exposures, using external triggers is recommended.
• Pay attention to the light conditions, as an exposure that is too long can lead to overexposure.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Activate the BULB mode

To activate the BULB mode, go to your camera's mode dial. If you are using a Canon 5D Mark III, simply set the dial to the letter "B". If your camera has a setting like "TV" or "S", go to the exposure time and select a time that exceeds 30 seconds until "B" is displayed.

2. Set aperture and ISO

After activating the BULB mode, you can select the aperture and ISO value. These settings affect how much light reaches the sensor of your camera. A wide-open aperture and a higher ISO allow you to use shorter exposure times. Since you control the exposure time in BULB mode, these settings are particularly important.

3. Triggering the exposure

To take a picture, hold the shutter button down. The camera will expose the image as long as you keep your finger on the shutter button. You will hear the camera "working." This can be unfamiliar at first since you need to physically control the exposure time. Be careful not to shake or move the camera, as this can affect the sharpness of your image.

4. Use an external trigger

For long exposures of more than a few seconds, it is advisable to use an external trigger. Such a trigger allows you to create a setup that holds the shutter button in a fixed position. Many triggers even have the option to "stick" in BULB mode, allowing them to expose for longer periods like minutes or even hours.

5. Pay attention to light conditions

Before starting your exposure, check the light conditions. Ideally, you should photograph in a place where there is little to no light to avoid overexposure. If you are shooting in daylight, the image can quickly become overexposed if the exposure time is too long.

6. Experiment and adjust

When trying out the BULB mode, it will likely be necessary to experiment a bit. If your image is too bright or too dark, adjust the aperture or ISO value. Remember that a longer exposure time (e.g., from 15 to 30 seconds) theoretically only halves the brightness. Mistakes in long exposure are not disastrous but part of the learning process.

7. Demonstration of results

After you have made the settings, press the shutter and keep it pressed until you reach the exposure time you want. The counter at the top of your camera shows how long you have been exposing. Take your time to experiment with different exposure times and see how the light changes.

8. Learn the limits of the BULB mode

There is no set upper limit for exposure time in BULB mode. Theoretically, you can expose as long as your battery lasts or the light allows. Rarely will the results be usable with extremely long exposures, unless you are working under specific conditions, such as at night or in dark environments.

Summary – BULB Mode in Photography: Mastering Long Exposures

The BULB mode gives you the opportunity to create long exposures characterized by creativity and patience. With the right settings and a bit of experimentation, you can capture impressive images that reflect the results of your efforts.