The exposure triangle: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO have corresponding roles. Different settings will influence the photo. In the previous article we introduced two effects by changing aperture. Today let’s go through Shutter Speed.

Fast Shutter Speed – Freeze the Moment

Have you ever thought of shooting a sharp photo of rain drops, a car racing competition or a flying bird? All of these photos require you to freeze a very fast movement. In this case a high shutter speed should be used. Increasing shutter speed significantly is easy. Try to widen your aperture (e.g. f/2.8, f/3.5 etc) and/or increase ISO (e.g. ISo400, ISO1600 etc). Then you will have a high shutter speed with correct exposure.

Slow Shutter Speed – Record the Pass of Time

Here comes my favorite part – Slow Shutter Speed. By using a slow shutter speed, you can record the “pass of time”. The result is rewarding as you will capture an image that our bare eyes cannot see. For example silky smooth waterfall, colorful car trail or sporty motion.

Tips on Using Slow Shutter Speed

When you use slow shutter speed, there are two gears probably you need to use. One is tripod and another is shutter release cable. The former can hold your camera in stable position without vibration which will result in an unwanted blur. The latter will dramatically lower the chance of shaking your camera when you press the button on the camera directly. Both of these accessories are very useful, and sometimes crucial, for taking a slow shutter speed photo successfully.

Recommended tripod: SLIK Carbon Fiber Tripod Pro CF-634 with Photoclam 30NS Ball head
Recommended shutter release cable: Sidande 2.4G Wireless Remote Control Shutter Release

Summary

As you can see, by controlling the shutter speed, we can deliver more creative effects and express the feeling we want. Try to make good use of this important factor next time you shoot!

 

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Author: Alex Tam