Shutter speed is defined as the length of time that light can go through the lens in your camera
and hit the sensor. The longer the shutter speed, the brighter the image. But, if it is too long
then camera shake (motion blur) will occur. Using a tripod or a higher ISO are ways to avoid
camera shake. I will follow up with an article with more information about ISO next week
on Week End Photo Tips.
To master shutter speed, it is necessary to know fractions because a shutter speed is expressed
as a fraction of a number. Here is an exercise that can help to test out your fraction-ability!
**See answers at end of article
- What is 1/2 of 1/100th of a second?
- What is double 1/100th of a second?
- What is 4x 1/20th of a second?
- Is 1/10th of a second the same as 2/20ths of a second?
- What is 1/5th of 1/100th of a second?
- What is 5x 1/100ths of a second?
is long. For example, if I were using a 50mm lens then I would have to use at least a 1/50th/sec.
speed, but even then I am at risk of camera shake.
If you have a tripod, here are some ideas for you! Long shutter speed can be a lot of fun
if you have the right subject. Stars at night are a great example. If using a long enough shutter speed, then you can actually capture the stars' rotation. Just a note - you will have to pick a clear night.
I used an approx. 4 min. shutter speed for this shot.
But if you would like, times as long as 1 hour can capture more of the stars' rotation.
You can purchase this photo and many more at my Etsy shop!
Here is the link: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SplashOfPhotography?ref=si_shop
Here are some examples of photos with camera shake.
result in great photos.
**Answers to test above:
- 1/200th of a second
- 1/50th of a second
- 1/5th of a second
- yes
- 1/500th of a second
- 1/20th of a second
