What is the best time to take this photograph?

The best time is during the "blue hour," about 30-60 minutes after sunset. This is when the sky has a deep blue color that contrasts beautifully with the bright city lights. It is typically crowded, so be prepared for a lot of pedestrian traffic, especially on weekends.

What camera gear is essential for this shot?

You will need a camera with manual controls (DSLR or mirrorless), a standard zoom lens (like a 24-70mm), a sturdy tripod, and a cable release. The tripod is crucial for keeping your camera perfectly still during the long exposure.

What were your final camera settings?

The key setting was a small aperture of f/16 to create starbursts from the lights and control the exposure. Set your ISO to its base level (e.g., 100 or 200) and adjust your shutter speed to be a few seconds long to capture the light trails from passing cars.

Do I really need a filter to take this picture?

No. As explained in the article, a neutral density (ND) filter was actually unhelpful because the scene is so bright. The best approach is to control the light using a small aperture (like f/16) instead.