There are a number of tools at a photographer's disposal. Shutter speed is just one of them. Using the camera's shutter as a creative tool can help you enhance the photographs that you take as well as open up new worlds of possibility. Photographers throughout the years have manipulated images using shutter speed to create some incredible works of art.

The Basics of Shutter Speed

In the day of digital computers and automatic settings, it's easy to forget all about your camera's basic shutter operation. However, the shutter speed is length of time that the lens' shutter remains open during the capturing of the image. When using film (as opposed to digital formats), the shutter is responsible for allowing the right amount of light exposed to the film to create the best image.

The faster the speed of the shutter, the less time it is open. This might be ideal for bright, outdoor shots in which the sun is bright and too much exposure can white out the image, or for fast action shots in which the goal is to avoid blurring. The slower the speed of the shutter, the longer it is open for and the more light is allowed to get through to the 'film.'

When it comes to choosing the proper setting of the shutter, there are a number of variables that come into play. However, varying this speed during certain situations can create a wealth of creative possibilities and that's why the camera's shutter speed is an amazing creative tool.

Panning

One such artistic tool that you can add to your photographic repertoire is known as panning. In this, the speed of the shutter is lengthened slightly, with the focus on a specific object maintained, while the background images become blurred. Increasing the speed to 1/40th or 1/30th, for example, focus on a moving vehicle or other somewhat fixed object. Keep the image in the center of the field of vision and take the shot.

You will notice that the main image, though partially blurred, will tend to remain focused while the background is blurred around it. Experiment with this style of panning and you will begin to discover the possibilities.

Zoom Flares

Using a tripod, this shutter speed creative tool is very simple. Place the camera on a tripod and focus on a specific object in the distance, such as a building. Using a slow shutter speed, place your hand on the lens' zooming feature and when you snap the shot, turn the zoom. When you review the effect, you'll be amazed to see how this simple technique allows the object to be clear and in focus but a hazing echo style effect to be laid out around it.

Light Painting

I will get more into light painting in another article, but this technique relies on a slow shutter speed in a dark setting. Using a light, hold the shutter open and move the light around. You will notice the effect that occurs and you can begin to experiment with different patterns and techniques for light painting.

Once you become more comfortable with a camera's shutter speed, you will have a powerful new creative tool at your disposal. Combining abstract artistic integrity with the pure essence of photography can open a wealth of possibilities to any photographer and of any skill level.

Wayne Burke, an experienced Media Arts professional, invites you to increase your knowledge of photography.

To learn more about techniques like this one, including videos, visit:
http://trickphotographyandspecialeffects.net/

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