Your custom neon sign is more than just decoration—it's a statement piece that deserves to be captured beautifully in your wedding photos. With the right photography techniques, your neon sign can become the stunning focal point that makes your photos truly memorable.
Understanding Neon Light Photography
Neon signs present unique photography challenges and opportunities. The bright, colorful light can create stunning effects, but it requires specific techniques to capture properly. Understanding how your camera responds to artificial light is the first step to mastering neon photography.
Best Times to Photograph Your Neon Sign
While neon signs can be photographed any time, certain conditions produce better results:
- Golden Hour: The warm, soft light during sunset creates a beautiful contrast with neon colors
- Blue Hour: The period just after sunset when the sky is deep blue provides perfect balance
- Night Photography: Complete darkness allows the neon to be the primary light source
Camera Settings for Neon Photography
Getting the right camera settings is crucial for capturing neon signs effectively. Here are our recommended starting points:
- ISO: Start with ISO 400-800, adjust based on available light
- Aperture: f/4-f/8 for sharp focus across the sign
- Shutter Speed: 1/60s or faster to avoid motion blur
Composition Techniques
The way you frame your neon sign can dramatically impact the final image. Consider these composition tips:
- Use the rule of thirds to position your sign
- Include environmental context to tell a story
- Experiment with different angles and perspectives
- Leave space for the neon glow to breathe
Working with Reflections
Neon signs often create beautiful reflections on surfaces like water, glass, or polished floors. These reflections can double the visual impact of your sign and create stunning symmetrical compositions.
Post-Processing Tips
Even the best in-camera shots can benefit from thoughtful post-processing:
- Enhance the neon glow without overdoing it
- Adjust contrast to make the sign pop
- Fine-tune colors to match the actual neon appearance
- Remove distracting elements from the background