Sep 20, 2018 2 min read

I am always looking for ways to capture images that are unique, creative and fresh.

Capturing motion in a still image gives the viewer the feeling of actually moving along with the subject.

There are several ways to capture movement in photography. The one I will explore is panning, which works on moving subjects.

Panning is a very simple technique the helps to convey mood, atmosphere and feeling of movement.

Track your subject by moving your camera from right to left, or left to right, while pressing the shutter. A slow shutter speed will give you more of a blurred background that will make your subject stand out. Keep in mind a shutter speed faster than 1/250 second tends to freeze the subject or scene while a shutter speed slower than 1/50 second tends to result in some blurring.

First, set your camera shutter priority – “S” for Nikon and “Tv” for Canon. I usually start with a shutter speed of 1/125 second down to 1/8 second. Remember that there is no correct shutter speed for panning.

Also, set your camera in burst mode or continuous shooting, so when you press the shutter and hold it, the camera will take multiple shots in rapid fire. To avoid camera shake when your shutter speed is 1/30 second or slower, use a monopod or tripod with a swiveling head. I tend to use a monopod while panning with a 70mm-200mm due to the weight of the lens, and it helps to track my subject smoothly.

This technique is about capturing motion, so your main subject might not be completely sharp and in focus, which adds a creative element to a still image. Keep in mind, you have to shoot a lot of pictures to get one that’s a keeper, so don’t get discouraged.

A few tips

• Choose subjects that are moving in a straight line from right to left.
• Practice panning with a smooth motion.
• Use a monopod or tripod.
• Have fun and explore with different shutter speeds.