Slow Shutter Speed Photography

Have you ever seen shots of waterfalls or the ocean where the water looks blurry or almost like fog?  Have you asked yourself "how do they do that?"

Well, it is quite simple really. 

A must-have to accomplish this is a tripod.  This will ensure that your camera stays as steady as possible because you will need to slow your shutter speed way down.  If you attempt to hold the camera yourself, everything will be a big blur. 

Depending on how light or dark it is outside, you'll need to adjust accordingly.  In basic daylight, I usually start with this setting:
   * Exposure: 3.5 seconds
   * F-Stop: 22
   * ISO: 100

If its getting close to sunset, then I start with:

   * Exposure: 8 seconds
   * F-Stop: 11
   * ISO: 100

As you are taking the picture, play with the settings and see how far you can push it.  For example, an extra second longer exposure can give your photo a completely different look.  The end results can be breathtaking.

Highlights and Close Focusing by Bryan Peterson

Graceful Dancers

I came across this photo and it really struck me.  The beauty in the simplicity of the shot and the different emotions on each subject's face.  Just so graceful!  Photo by Gary Young.

The Party is Over!

Well, this is not my photo, but I thought it sums up the way everybody is feeling, nicely.  I love the composition, the lighting, the depth of field and the emotion it evokes.  This is great photography!

Photography by: Theddy Grumo

San Diego Sunset

I love this shot.  It was such a beautiful evening.  I have to admit that I had a little help enhancing the reflections.  But, I don't think those enhancements affected the integrity of the actual photo.

Majestic Lake Arrowhead

Shooting in the snow, I recently learned, is not easy.  Because the white of the snow reflects so much light, you really have to compensate by minimizing the amount of light you let in the lens.  So you really need to take your time to adjust your aperture and shutter speed accordingly.  Keep in mind that you might have to change the settings for each shot, depending on where the sun is reflecting and what you are trying to shoot.  Have fun experimenting...

  

Thinking of Maui...



Kapalua Shoreline, Maui



Wishing I was still there...



Iao Needle



Red Sand Beach, Hana




Lahaina Harbor



Wailea Sunset



Sunrise in Hana