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Very generally, higher shutter speeds are better for stopping or freezing motion: 1/500 or 1/1000 of a second and up if your camera goes there. But you must bear in mind that all motion is relative.

For example, say you are standing at the side of a road wishing to photograph a passing car. The car is going, oh, 40 mph (64 kph). As the car comes level with you, you click the shutter at, say, 1/1000 of a second. This will probably stop most of the motion of the car, but depending on how close you are to the car, there may still be some smearing of the car. But motion is relative: If you shoot the car while it is still approaching, 1/1000 of a second will probably freeze it pretty solid.

But suppose you pick up the car in your viewfinder (not all cameras can do this due to what is called "shutter lag") and follow it, clicking the shutter as it passes in front of you and "following through" like a golfer after the swing (this technique is called "panning"). You'll be surprised. Done correctly, the car will be sharper, but the background will start to blur a little. Continue the experiment by slowing the shutter down. Try the same trick at 1/500, 1/250 and on down (remembering to close down your aperture if you must do so manually). What happens? How sharp can you hold the car? How much does the background blur? Do you get an increasing impression of speed? Try this trick with your kid going by on a tricycle. You can make the youngster look like s/he's at NASCAR!

Another example: you're at the skateboard park and a boarder is flying up the ramp into the air. There is a moment, a very short moment to be sure but a moment in time where that fellow essentially stops moving, right at the top of his arc. A shot timed for that instant can be made at a remarkably slower shutter and still "freeze" the "motion" because, at that instant, there isn't much motion. Obviously this takes timing and a camera with no shutter lag, and it's usually a lot easier if you crank it to 1/500 or so, but try slowing your shutter and timing your shot and see how much more of an impression of motionyou can capture in a still photograph. There will start to be some smearing of the skateboard as it rotates, the hands and arms may smear, but that's what gives the shot the feel of motion in a still picture. This all takes what a friend calls "spray and pray" but just keep shooting and you may be surprised at the results. (Tip: this is not necessarily a job for your 80 fps motor drive, even if you have such a thing. Use finesse. Shoot for what Cartier-Bresson called "the decisive moment.")

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16y ago

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Related Questions

Why use different shutter speeds?

Shutter speeds determine the length of time that the shutter is open, and that the film or sensor receives light. If I wanted to freeze the motion of a speeding car for example, I would need to have the shutter open for a very short period of time. If I wanted to show that the car is moving, I would leave the shutter open for a bit longer. Many different effects can be achieved by changing the shutter speed.


How can the stop motion shutter speed be adjusted to achieve the desired effect in photography or filmmaking?

To adjust the stop motion shutter speed for desired effects in photography or filmmaking, you can increase or decrease the speed to control the amount of motion blur in each frame. A faster shutter speed freezes motion and creates sharp images, while a slower shutter speed captures motion blur for a more dynamic effect. Experimenting with different shutter speeds can help achieve the desired look for your project.


What is stopping action in photography?

"Stopping action": You could be referring to the use of shutter speeds fast enough to freeze motion and eliminate any motion blur (sometimes a boring or inappropriate technique). Or you might be referring to a stage of the film developing process where development is abruptly stopped with a stop bath.


What are some tips for adjusting the DSLR shutter speed to capture fast-moving subjects?

To capture fast-moving subjects with a DSLR camera, adjust the shutter speed to a faster setting. This will help freeze the motion and prevent blurriness. Start with a shutter speed of at least 1/500th of a second and increase it as needed. Experiment with different speeds to find the best setting for the specific subject and lighting conditions.


How to read shutter speed effectively for capturing high-quality photographs?

To read shutter speed effectively for high-quality photos, understand that a faster shutter speed freezes motion while a slower speed captures motion blur. Experiment with different speeds to find the right balance for your desired effect.


How can I change the shutter speed on my camera?

To change the shutter speed on your camera, locate the dial or menu option that controls the shutter speed settings. Adjust the setting to a faster or slower speed to capture different motion effects in your photos. Experiment with different shutter speeds to achieve the desired look for your images.


To freeze the action of the subject what shutter speed should be used?

Depends. Are you photographing a moving snail or rotating airplane propeller? The threshold for hand held shots is 1/60 with image stabilization maybe around 1/40 but if you're subject is moving too fast then you would get motion blur. In order to freeze motion you must have shutter speeds of 1/100 or higher. Taking photographs is really trial and error. You can build upon you're basic knowledge of shutter speed, apperture, ISO etc. and improve you're skills by taking lots of pictures but be sure to enjoy it.


What should my shutter speed be to capture the best possible image?

The best shutter speed for capturing a sharp image depends on the lighting conditions and the subject's movement. In general, a faster shutter speed (1/250 or higher) is recommended for capturing fast-moving subjects or reducing camera shake. However, slower shutter speeds (1/60 or lower) can be used for capturing motion blur or in low light conditions. Experiment with different shutter speeds to find the best one for your specific situation.


How can I capture a stunning motion blur photo?

To capture a stunning motion blur photo, use a slow shutter speed to create a sense of movement in your subject. Keep your camera steady by using a tripod or stabilizing your body. Experiment with different shutter speeds and practice panning with your subject to achieve the desired effect.


How can I capture stunning motion blur photos?

To capture stunning motion blur photos, use a slow shutter speed and a stable surface or tripod to prevent camera shake. Experiment with different shutter speeds to achieve the desired effect, and consider using a remote shutter release or self-timer to minimize movement. Additionally, try panning with the moving subject to create dynamic blur effects.


What are the shutter speeds on a canon 450d?

1/4000 - 30sec


How can I take slow shutter speed photos effectively?

To take slow shutter speed photos effectively, use a tripod to keep the camera steady, set a low ISO to reduce noise, and use a remote shutter release or timer to minimize camera shake. Experiment with different shutter speeds to achieve the desired effect, such as capturing motion blur or light trails.