For your viewing pleasure... Here are the results from a recent photo shoot in Clear Lake- Houston. I discovered a new technique to use for front elevations that really produced great results. In order to distribute the light evenly, I physically "painted" the house with light during the ten second exposure so that every part can be illuminated - including the yard and roof. It also helps eliminate shadows that are caused by trees and bushes. I actually moved the light around and over under-lit areas while the shutter was open.

Here is my process for exteriors in a nutshell:

I use 2 halogen work lights you can find at any hardware store (mine were about $15 each) . I set them up on each side of the house and try to point them so that they spread the light evenly over the house. (you need to remove the metal covering grate-like safety sheild first) I set the camera up on a tripod and close the aperture enough to use a 10 second or longer exposure shutter speed. I use my on-camera light meter and manual settings to set this.

Wait until the sun is completely down - it can be pretty dark at the perfect moment (lasts 5-10 minutes or so) You have to learn to recognize the lighting conditions by looking at the sky and waiting for that deep dark blue. I usually get anxious and shoot too early thinking I will lose the opportunity - that is ok because better safe than sorry. I have about a Gig of memory on my camera card.

Then I set the timer that delays the photo (usually used to give time for the cameraman to jump in the picture) since I dont have a remote shutter switch. This is to reduce camera movement caused from pushing the button. I also use that 10 second delay time to walk over to a light an pick it up (whichever light is dominant - your choice)

I can hear the shutter open up, and I know the picture is being taken now. I use this time to shine the light across the house and sweep side to side and all around to give a little light to every area...even the grass and shrubs which are usually neglected since the light is focused on the house most of the time.

After about ten seconds or so(whatever you set the shutter speed), I can hear the shutter close again. It's finished - so I walk back over to the camera to see the results.

And usually - it's beautiful. I take a few more just be be sure though - and get a few alternate angles. Always shoot in RAW mode. Remember to set your white balance to tungsten even though you are outdoors.

Thanks for reading, I hope this "sheds some light?" on the issue...