Golden hours
From the blue hour after sunset until full darkness and lights-on, the sky still has depth and the water reflects the city lights clearly — the best window for night photography.
Composition
- Use the bridges and their symmetric reflections on the water for depth and order.
- Make Hongyadong or the opposite skyline the subject and find a side angle to avoid stray light.
- The boat moves, so raise the shutter speed a little or steady the camera against a railing.
Gear tips
- For night shots use a wide aperture and a moderate ISO to keep the frame sharp.
- The deck is windy — hold your gear steady; bag it before entering the air-conditioned cabin to avoid condensation.
- Carry spare batteries for long or cold-weather shooting.