If a slow shutter speed is selected, movement is captured. Using a fast shutter speed will freeze the action.
Here are suggested shutter speeds for photographing a variety of subjects.
SUGGESTED SHUTTER SPEEDS | |
---|---|
TO FREEZE ACTION* | TO CAPTURE MOTION** |
Children – 1/250 – 1/1000 seconds | Amusement park rides: +/- one second |
Moving water/waterfalls: 1/1000 seconds or more | Moving water/waterfalls: 4 or more seconds |
Sporting event: 1/500 – 1/2000 seconds | Fireworks: 1/2 – 4 seconds |
Birds in flight: 1/1000th a second and above | Moving cars at night: 8-10 seconds |
Night photography – one or more seconds |
To help prevent images from becoming blurred, set the shutter speed faster than the focal length. For example, a zoom lens set at 200mm (35mm equivalent) requires a shutter speed of at least 1/200 second to avoid a blurred image. Adjust shutter speeds even faster for DSLRs with a focal length multiplier .
** Tripod or other camera support is recommended whenever using slow shutter speeds. Also use the self-timer or remote to trigger the shutter to prevent camera movement.
If your camera has Image Stabilization, some manufacturers recommend shutting it off when using a digital camera on a tripod. Check your camera manual.
Ref: http://www.digicamhelp.com/taking-photos/advanced-techniques/shutter-speed-chart/