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Author: Eric Hartwell Article source: http://www.photographyarea.com/. Used with author's permission.
Use a tripod if you can
A tripod is an indispensable piece
of equipment. However, they are often large, heavy and cumbersome. In many
instances you simply won't be able to use a tripod to get the picture you need.
But, without one, your images will be inferior won't they? Perhaps, but if you
follow the following guidelines, then you'll be in a better position to get the
most out of your camera.
Use a fast shutter speed
Use the fastest shutter speed that
you can. The longest shutter speed that will guarantee pin sharp images is
1/60. Some people will claim that they can get sharp images at 1/30 or even
1/15 - don't listen to them.
Consider your lens
The focal length of your lens is important
- the longer the focal length, the faster the shutter speed needs to be to
ensure a steady hand. A good rule of thumb is to choose a minimum shutter speed
which is equivalent to 1/focal length. So a 100mm lens needs a shutter speed of
1/100 whereas a 400mm lens needs one of 1/400 and so on
Go faster if you can
Try to err on the side of caution and choose an even
faster shutter speed where you can. The problem is that the longer the focal
length, the smaller the maximum aperture is likely to be thus restricting your
choice of shutter speed. The bigger the aperture you choose the faster the
shutter speed you can use
Action requires it even faster
Fast cars, trains, lorries; people
moving, running, jumping; animals, waves, trees in the wind - these all require
you to be even more careful as the shutter speed required to freeze movement is
already relatively fast. Just rack up the speed to the fastest the camera will
allow. The shorter the focal length and the wider the aperture, the more
successful you will be in freezing movement.
Stand steadfast
Posture is important. If you
cannot get a fast shutter speed (in relation to your lens) then choose an
appropriate stance when taking your pictures. Lean against a building, wall or
fence if you can. Stand with legs apart and brace your elbows against your sides.
If it is windy, wait for a lull.
Try and rest your camera or lens
against something solid and hold it firmly. And ensure it is well braced
against your forehead.
Breathe and be gentle
Take a deep breath and hold it
when you click the shutter release. And when you do take the picture, make slow
and smooth movements. No sudden stabs or jerks.
Remember -
ISO is your friend
Most cameras allow you to change the ISO setting. The
bigger the ISO you set, the faster the shutter speed you can choose. You will
get more "noise" or "grain" in your images but it can mean the difference
between a half decent picture or no picture at all.
Tripod
alternatives
Even if you haven't got a tripod, it is worth
considering a minipod or monopod. These are no substitute for a decent tripod
but they are small, light and inexpensive. Another great piece of equipment is
a small beanbag. This can be placed on a surface and will mould to the shape of
the camera when it is placed on it.
Remote is
best
If you can use a cable release or an infrared remote
release then do so. Or, when the camera is steady, using the self timer will
allow shutter release without you manhandling the camera
Don't underestimate the importance of good technique and
style. You will get better pictures by following simple and commonsense steps
such as those outlined above.
Have fun Eric Hartwell is an enthusiastic photographer and owner of the photography resource site The Shutter. He would pleased to hear from anyone who might wish to become involved in the site - email click here to send email
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