City Lights

Some photographers might use an ND (neutral density) filter in the day to obtain a wider aperture (narrower depth-of-field). Some use it to slow down the shutter speed when shooting a waterfall, for example.

I like using an ND Filter during dusk. The reduction in light allows me to use a very long exposure. When combined with a handheld shot in a moving vehicle, the lights will streak to become beautiful art. Try this only if you are the passenger.

Kuala Lumpur as seen from Jalan Loke Yew. Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f3.5, 6 seconds with Hoya NDX 400 filter.

City Lights

The Other Side

Street photography need not be of pedestrians or vendors. Inanimate objects are equally interesting but still require some legwork. When I first saw this colourful concrete fence of a Chinese school in Pudu, I thought it was pretty well lit and nice. It was facing the setting sun directly.

But when I walked to the back of it to explore, I knew the little arches (and pillars) will be special given the right moment. Cityscape photography is also about waiting and stalking (the sun). I waited for the sun to creep behind a tree. The leaves added some natural shading and toning to the seeping light. Magical.

Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f8, 1/160 sec.

Magical