Cody Casey
Panning is a fundamental technique used in both still and motion picture photography. It involves opening the camera shutter and then moving the camera horizontally before the shutter closes. This creates a sense of motion and speed, with the subject appearing still and the background blurred. To achieve this effect, photographers can use different camera modes such as Shutter Priority mode, Manual mode, autofocus mode, and slow-sync flash mode. The choice of mode depends on factors like the subject's speed, the desired level of blur, and the photographer's skill level.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Camera mode | Shutter Priority (S or Tv), Manual, or built-in panning mode |
| Shutter speed | Slow (e.g. 1/15 to 1/200 of a second) |
| Autofocus | On (AI Servo or AF-C) |
| Flash | Optional (can be used with bulb mode) |
| Image Stabilizer | Off (unless using a lens with Mode 2 IS) |
| Aperture | Adjust as needed for exposure (not required in Shutter Priority mode) |
| ISO | Adjust as needed |
| File format | RAW |
| Equipment | Tripod or monopod recommended |
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Shutter priority mode
In Shutter Priority mode, photographers can select a fast or slow shutter speed, and the camera will adjust the aperture accordingly to achieve proper exposure. For example, choosing a fast shutter speed will result in a wider aperture, maximising the amount of light captured during the brief time the shutter is open. On the other hand, a slow shutter speed will lead to a narrower aperture, reducing the amount of light that reaches the sensor. This balance between shutter speed and aperture is known as the exposure triangle, which also includes ISO settings.
When using Shutter Priority mode for panning, photographers can create artistic motion blur effects. By selecting a moderately slow shutter speed, such as 1/30s, the background will blur while the subject remains relatively sharp. This technique is ideal for capturing moving subjects, such as a runner or a cyclist, as it adds a sense of motion and drama to the image. The slower the shutter speed, the more blurred the background will become.
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Manual mode
When using manual mode for panning, it is important to constantly adjust the aperture to capture a good exposure. This can be challenging and may require some practice to get the perfect shot. It is also important to note that shooting handheld at a slow shutter speed can introduce camera shake, resulting in undesirable blur in the photos. To avoid this, it is recommended to mount the camera on a tripod or monopod.
To achieve a successful pan, the camera must move in perfect synergy with the subject. The photographer should focus on moving the camera precisely to accurately track the moving object. It is crucial to maintain a constant distance from the subject as you both move.
Additionally, the lens used can also impact the final image. A mid-range zoom lens, also known as a travel zoom, with a range of around 105 mm, is ideal for panning photography. However, for sports events or situations where the subject is farther away, a longer zoom lens may be more suitable.
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Autofocus mode
To use autofocus mode, you need to turn on your camera's continuous focusing mode, such as AF-C on Nikon and Sony, and AI-Servo on Canon. This enables your camera to continuously focus on the subject as it moves across the frame. You should start focusing on the subject when it is in the distance, and then keep the centre focus point trained on the subject's centre as you pan along.
There are different autofocus area modes available on cameras, such as "Dynamic" on Nikon or "AF Point Expansion" on Canon. In these modes, you select one focus point, and the camera will initially focus on that point. If the subject then moves, the camera will use the surrounding focus points to track its movement and maintain focus. This is particularly useful for fast-moving subjects like birds, where it can be challenging to keep the focus on them in flight.
Another autofocus mode is Group-Area AF, which also tracks the subject once focus is acquired, as long as one of the focus points is near the subject. If the subject moves too quickly for you to pan the camera in the same direction, you may lose focus, similar to what happens in Dynamic AF mode.
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Slow-sync flash mode
To use slow-sync flash mode effectively, you need to understand the two main options available: front curtain sync (or 1st curtain sync) and rear curtain sync (or 2nd curtain sync). With front curtain sync, the flash fires at the beginning of the exposure, resulting in light trails appearing in front of your subject. On the other hand, rear curtain sync activates the flash just before the end of the exposure, creating light trails behind your subject and drawing attention to them.
The choice between these two options depends on the specific effect you want to achieve. For example, front curtain sync can illuminate the main subject and capture ambient light, while rear curtain sync tends to produce a faint image trail and a sharper main subject. Additionally, you can experiment with different shutter speeds to control the amount of blur in your images.
When using slow-sync flash mode, it is important to stabilise your camera to avoid camera shake, especially since you are working with slower shutter speeds. This can be achieved by mounting your camera on a tripod or monopod, especially when using a long lens. However, handheld shooting is also possible and can sometimes produce interesting results, such as an abstract, trippy feel to your photos.
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Bulb mode
To address the problem of camera shake caused by touching the camera, photographers often use a cable release or remote shutter release to trigger bulb mode without pressing the shutter button. Many of these releases include locks, allowing you to press, lock, and then release the shutter button when the exposure is complete. On some cameras, bulb mode is represented by a ""B" on the mode dial, while on others, it is activated through the shutter speed menu, usually next to the 30-second setting.
It is important to note that bulb mode does not provide any timing features, so photographers must manually time their exposures. Additionally, an ultra-strong neutral density (ND) filter is usually required when using bulb mode, as it blocks light from reaching the camera's sensor, enabling the use of longer shutter speeds.
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Frequently asked questions
Shutter Priority mode is recommended for panning photography. This mode, also known as 'S' or 'Tv' (time value), allows you to adjust the shutter speed while the camera handles the rest.
The shutter speed will depend on the speed of your subject. For a racecar, a speed of 1/125s may be suitable, while for a runner, 1/30s is recommended.
It is important to use a slow shutter speed for panning photography. You can also experiment with different flash settings, exposure settings, and ISO settings to achieve the desired effect.
While not necessary, a tripod or monopod can help stabilise your camera during panning shots, especially if you are using a long zoom lens.
It is recommended to use autofocus for panning photography, especially if you are a beginner. This will ensure that your camera continuously focuses on the subject as it moves.
