Katuvalopisteet

Katuvalopisteet are Finnish colloquial terms referring to the illuminated points visible in photographs of nighttime cityscapes or other outdoor scenes illuminated by artificial lights. These points are essentially out-of-focus light sources that appear as circular or polygonal shapes due to the lens aperture. The size and shape of these katuvalopisteet are influenced by the lens used, the aperture setting, and the distance of the light source from the camera.

Photographers often seek to capture or create pleasing katuvalopisteet as an aesthetic element in their night photography. The effect can add depth, sparkle, and a sense of atmosphere to an image. Different lens designs and aperture blade shapes can result in various characteristic appearances of these light points, such as sharp hexagonal stars or soft, blurry circles. Techniques like using prime lenses with wider apertures or specific post-processing methods can be employed to enhance or create katuvalopisteet. The term is particularly relevant in discussions about urban photography and capturing the mood of a city after dark.