The question of how slow you can go with your shutter speed while keeping action shots sharp is a critical one. Shutter speed doesn’t just impact exposure; it defines the way motion appears in your photos. Understanding this balance is key to solving real-world challenges when the light is limited or the action is fast.
Coming to you from David Bergman with Adorama, this practical video tackles the balance between light and motion in action photography. Bergman starts by explaining how shutter speed affects both exposure and motion blur. Faster speeds freeze motion but let in less light, while slower speeds brighten the image at the risk of blur. In dim environments, it’s often necessary to slow your shutter speed, but how slow you can go depends on your subject. For example, a soccer player might require 1/1,000th of a second, while a concert photo could work with much slower speeds if you stabilize your camera.
The video also explores how to stabilize your camera when using slower shutter speeds. Bergman recommends leaning against a wall or using a viewfinder to minimize camera shake. He also highlights techniques like shooting in bursts and taking advantage of image stabilization features, whether built into your lens or camera body. These small adjustments can make a big difference when you’re pushing the limits of your equipment. The examples he shares, including a wide crowd shot taken at 1/50th of a second, demonstrate how blur in the background or less critical areas doesn’t necessarily ruin a photo.
Bergman also dives into creative uses for slow shutter speeds. For instance, shooting in rain or snow with slower speeds can transform tiny droplets into dynamic streaks of motion. Similarly, panning techniques, where the camera follows a moving subject, can create stunning shots with blurred backgrounds that convey a sense of speed. He even touches on using flash to “drag the shutter,” a method that balances ambient light with a sharp subject. These tips go beyond technical fixes and show how slower speeds can enhance the storytelling aspect of your photography. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Bergman.
