Shooting Christmas lights etc.

Each year the the local council runs a competition for Christmas light displays on homes and local business. Once I know where the displays are I intend to go out in the evening and take a few photos.

I was after a little advice on a starting point for my camera settings - ISO, speed etc. I will experiment as well but the voice of experience is always helpful.

set your white balance for incandecent (indoors)

shoot with a tripod.

shoot manual.

shoot 1/2 hour before sunset (watch the light, when the ambient light brightness balances with the xmas lights, you'll get about ten minutes worth of PRIME shooting time.).

Thanks for that. I do everything on manual and the tripod is ready! I never even thought of white balance or going out before sunset. Great tips.