Bulb

Bulb is a setting on a camera that allows the photographer to manually control the shutter speed beyond the camera’s normal range. It is typically used for long exposure photography, where the shutter needs to remain open for an extended period of time to capture a specific effect or image.

When the camera is set to bulb mode, the shutter will remain open for as long as the shutter button is depressed, allowing the photographer to manually control the exposure time. This can be done using either a wired or wireless remote shutter release or by using the camera’s built-in self-timer.

Bulb mode is commonly used in night photography, where long exposure times are needed to capture the dim light of stars, the moon, or other sources. It is also used in astrophotography to capture long-exposure images of the night sky.

Here are some examples of how the bulb setting can be used in photography:

1. Light trails: By using a slow shutter speed and the bulb setting, photographers can capture light trails from moving cars or other sources. This technique is often used in cityscape or landscape photography to add interest and movement to a scene.

2. Star trails: By using a very long exposure time in bulb mode, photographers can capture the movement of stars across the night sky. This technique is popular in astrophotography and requires a stable tripod and a clear, dark sky.

3. Fireworks: By using the bulb setting and timing the exposure to coincide with the burst of a firework, photographers can capture the full explosion and trail of light. This technique requires precise timing and a stable tripod to ensure sharp focus.

In summary, the bulb setting on a camera allows photographers to manually control the shutter speed beyond the camera’s normal range. It is commonly used in long exposure photography, including night photography, astrophotography, and capturing light trails or fireworks. By using the bulb setting and controlling the exposure time, photographers can create unique and interesting images that capture the beauty and movement of the world around us.