Gear and lenses
A wide lens suits the full span and the canopy, while a standard or slightly longer lens isolates the structure. A small tripod or a solid surface helps most after dark.
- Wide lens for the span and the canopy.
- Standard lens for structure and detail.
- A stable support, or a wall or railing to brace against.
- Keep a cloth for spray or drizzle near the river.
Exposure after dark
At night a steady camera matters more than a big lens. Keep the highlights of the lighting under control and avoid pushing brightness until the reflections smear.
- Support the camera rather than raising sensitivity.
- Watch bright lights and reflections for blown highlights.
- Check each frame on the screen before moving on.
Exact settings depend on your camera and the light that evening; treat any published values as a starting point only.
Composition
Use the walkway and the canopy as leading lines, and the river for depth and reflection.
- Line up along the walkway for the canopy pattern.
- From the bank, let the span cross the frame over water.
- Include a lit bank or skyline for scale.
- Watch the horizon line on the water.
Composition depends on where you stand and the light; there is no single correct framing.