pictures of christmas light displays at night, outside

[eureka07]

have fz20, shoot only in p mode. how do i take pictures of outdoor christmas light displays at night? can i use p mode, and do i use the flash? thanks

[FZ20knowitall]

keep in mind the flash will only illuminate about 14-17 feet in front of the camera. So if there is something that distance from the camera, use the flash. You might need to lower the flash intensity. You can try using P mode but definitely put the camera on a tripod. And you might need to use the exposure compensation as well.

[HawkeyeLonewolf]

have fz20, shoot only in p mode. how do i take pictures of outdoor christmas light displays at night? can i use p mode, and do i use the flash? thanks

A flash will wash out the Christmas light displays and the area beyond the flash range will be darkened and washed out.