How to Master Camera Panning

Camera panning is a relatively simple technique that allows you to capture moving objects with the same precision as still subjects. The way to master camera panning is not only to learn how to manipulate the camera itself, but also to learn just a little bit about shutter speeds so you can identify just the right combination to get the shot you've pictured in your head. Just a few easy-to-remember tips and you'll be on your way to learning how to master camera panning.

Instructions

1. Learn about shutter speed. On both film and digital cameras, the shutter speed is defined as the length of time that the aperture of the camera remains open in order to imprint the image on the camera medium, be it film, disc or memory card.

2. Master your particular camera. If you are using a film camera, you do not need to worry about any shutter delay, since the exposure is instant. However, if you're using a digital camera, you will need to become intimately familiar with your particular camera's shutter delay time. Though it's usually an increment of a second, when you're trying to capture an object in motion, it can be an eternity. This time should be listed in your camera's manual, but you'll need to practice in order to get your timing down perfectly.

3. Set your camera's shutter speed high if you want a photograph that is completely static. If you'd like to freeze the object in motion and have it against a background in crisp, clean detail, then choose a faster shutter speed. Anything over about 1/25 is considered fast, but most automobiles, for example, will require a shutter speed of around 1/50 or 1/60 to freeze the action completely.

4. Use a medium shutter speed to show the motion, but still get a clear picture of the object. A shutter speed of around 1/15 to 1/18 will give you a detailed, focused picture of the object in motion, like a car, bike or baby walking for the first time. However, the background will be blurred slightly to give the impression that the object is, in fact, in motion.

5. Lower your shutter speed to get a blurred picture. Sometimes you want a blurry subject if you're doing a particular project. To do this, set your camera shutter speed to about 1/8 or anything lower than 1/15.

6. Focus your camera on a location the object will pass where you would like to take your photo. For digital cameras, you can simply press the shutter button halfway for the camera to auto focus on that area. The camera will stay focused, so don't worry if it blurs when you move.

7. Anticipate the movement of the object. Preparing yourself for the speed of an object will allow you to pan at the proper speed.

8. Pan your camera from side to side, keeping the subject of your photo in the frame. For best results, keep your feet planted solidly and move only from the waist up. Pivot the top half of your body as one.

9. Snap your picture when the object reaches the point where you pre-focused your camera earlier.

Tips & Warnings

• Observe the area around your moving object to make sure there will be nothing to get in your shot.

• Dark backgrounds tend to work best for panning shots.