After seeing the sun set over and over again, it remains to be the sacred moment of the day that touches people worldwide. The sunset in Ramadan is even more special marking an important symbol when everything changes. It is the time when fasting becomes feasting, and companionship of loved ones takes centre stage.
To celebrate this month, local photographers from across the region including Hattan Ahmed, Alanood Mubarak, Mahra Almehairi, and Ahmad Alrais set out to capture the magic of the last light through the lens of their iPhone. Their shots created a spectacular display of ‘Shot on iPhone’ sunset photography, which, beginning today will appear on billboards across both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Saudi photographer Hattan Ahmed, comments on his experience saying “I very much enjoy taking sunset photography which gives me the unique opportunity to capture the variety of colors from the light of the sun as it falls closer to the horizon. What’s even more interesting is that you can get different types of shots from one session and one location.”
On their journey, they share their tips to shooting the stunning vibrant sky during sunset.
Sunset Photography Tips using iPhone X:
Tip 1: Research
To be able to capture great photos, you have to do your homework and research the location you’re visiting. Make sure to identify where the sun sets and follow its path so you know where to set up. It is also advisable to use a tripod.
Tip 2: Location
The location, weather, and time of year affect the color and feel of the last light. The desert creates deep oranges because of the dust and the sea has bluer hues because of the water particles. Another interesting tip, when it gets hotter in the UAE, the clouds rise too.
Tip 3: Framing
Step back and find the right angle. If you would like to capture small silhouettes in the foreground and a bigger sunset sky as the background, stand approximately 40 meters away from the horizon and get as low as possible.
Tip 4: Color
A single sunset creates a vast spectrum of color. Aim away from the sun to get a more abstract shot. Shooting lighter skies will give you more control when enhancing the colors, contrast, and saturation. Start shooting now. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Tip 5: Lock focus & exposure
Does the photo look too dark or bright? Adjust the exposure to get the lighting just right. Once the focus and exposure look great and you want to lock it in that same spot, press and hold on the screen until you see AE/AF Lock.
Tip 6: Features
Experiment with Live Photo, Video, and Slo-mo to expand your creative expression and capture additional live magical moments.
Tip 7: Timing
The sunset isn’t finished. Even after the sun goes down, the sky still changes the color. Some of the best colors appear after the sun has disappeared, so wait until you’re sure you’ve captured the very last light.
Tip 8: Edit your photos
Once you’ve captured and selected your top sunset shots, you can slightly edit them to make the colors pop out more using the photos app on your iPhone.
Emirati photographer, Ahmad Alrais, adds “What’s beautiful and challenging about sunset photography is you can never predict what you’re going to get. Every sunset has its own distinct beauty and every location can create different effects.”
He concludes “The most important thing is to enjoy yourself. You’re watching the sunset after all so it should leave you with a sense of calmness. No matter where you go, your iPhone camera will always fit in your pocket, so when you find the perfect shot, you will be prepared.”
