Sunset

1. Think Ahead

       Scope out places that may be god for sunsets during the day. Find out when the sun will set or rise to get there at least half an hour before sunrise or sunset. Keep a look out on the weather. Don't just go for clear days. They may be gorgeous but when the clouds are around thats when the real color comes out. 

2. Variety of Focal Lengths

       Wide angle shots can create sweeping landscapes, but if you want just the sun, make sure you zoom right in using 200mm lens or greater. Be aware that when looking through the lens at the sun it can be dangerous. 

3. Silhouettes as Focal Points

         This could be large such as a forest or environmental like a pier or animals. Silhouettes can add mood and a context to a sunset shot. 

4. Shoot at a Variety of Exposure

     Don't rely on your camera's auto mode to capture the sunset. This is a good time to switch to aperture and shutter priority mode and take multiple shots at different exposures. There is no right exposure to capture the sunset. 

5. Bracketing

       Look at what the camera suggest when taking a pictures. If your camera says to shoot at 1/60th of a second at f/8 you should shoot at 1/60 at f/5.6 and then f/11. This way you end up with different shots at different exposures. 

6. Auto Exposure Lock

        Allows you to point your camera at a darker place and lock in exposure for that spot and then reframe the picture looking at the sunset. 

7. Take off of Auto white balance mode

       When this is on, you run the risk of loosing some of the warm golden tones of a sunset. Try shooting in a cloudy or shade which are usually used in cooler lights, tells your camera to warm things up a bit. If you DO want a cooler moody shot you can experiment with other white balance settings. 

Have Fun!!! and Don't damage your Eyes!!!!!! :D