Just thought I'd post results of further explorations into what I'm calling the followICM technique.
Some of these are to test the technique with other software apps, some just playing further with the technique.
The first was a happy accident testing new software. I thought I had suspended the exposure but evidently it continued to complete as the camera was angled toward the ground.
As always, feedback whether good or bad is welcomed, it's always helpful to discover what others like/don't like.
1 - I really love your happy accident. The background (buildings, sky, tree) is beautiful.
2 - Did you purposely have the center point (building/tree) clearer to try it out or was that a result of the software you're testing?
4 - I really like how the bus is clear and wonder about your follow technique. I guess it would mean taking an initial normal photo then using it as a layer on the next ICM photo? Not sure.
5 makes me think I really like that "tunnel" look with this technique more than when there's only something running along one side of the subject (as in #6 & 7).
The final image is a really good composition with the subject down that center walkway with the street drawing perspective lines and then buildings standing horizontally in front of the subject. All the lines converge very pleasingly.
So what are the different apps you're playing with? Are you happy with the results?
Thanks as always for your thoughtfully considered response Jenny. Here's feedback to your questions;
2. - The 'sharp' building MAY be the result of the software I am using. The app includes AI image stabilization, so it MAY be latching onto an element and trying its best to maintain sharpness.
I've yet to find a way to control this (as this is not what the app was designed for...), but I've noticed that with this/other apps that more distant objects tend to retain sharpness at times. This likely makes sense as the relative motion between the camera and distant objects (eg horizons) tends to be minimal.
This is still something I'm trying to figure out.
4. This was actually just a simple pan from the side as the bus was passing. Not exactly a true use of the technique but I thought the result was interesting enough to share.
5. I was very cognizant of the 'tunnel' effect in this image. This was achieved walking down a narrow alley.
The last image is one where I actually asked the lady if I could follow her (after showing/explaining what I was attempting). I was aware of the lines as I followed her through the park - she was returning from lunch to her workplace across the street.
The apps I have been testing thus far are ReeHeld, Spectre, Slow Shutter and Pro Cam to varying degrees. I'm also hoping to test the native iPhone LivePhoto feature in Long Exposure mode.
In general I am pleased with results, but there's a lot of learning and trial & error involved. Each attempt provides a greater understanding of the outcomes.
I particularly like the bus image. The background is like a motion bokeh? While the sharp bus seems to anchor the composition
Thanks for your contribution Steven.
I agree with your comments on the bus image - the contrast between bus & background does offer something a little different.