Understanding the shutter speed dial
The shutter speed on a camera is set using the shutter speed dial. Shutter speed determines how long the shutter will remain open while recording a photograph.
Function
Film camera with calibrated exterior shutter speed dial
The longer the shutter speed, the more light is recorded; conversely, the shorter the shutter speed, the less light is recorded. You select your shutter speed by turning the shutter speed dial.
Location
Digital cameras with LCD readouts
On older cameras, the shutter speed dial with marked calibrations is located on the outside of the camera body. On digital cameras, you view a shutter speed readout from an LCD panel or through the viewfinder.
Selecting Speed
Mastering shutter speed
On older cameras, you turn the calibrated dial to select your desired speed. On digital cameras, you also turn an exterior dial, but must watch the LCD panel or viewfinder for the shutter speed readout.
Stopping Motion
Using a fast shutter speed
To stop motion, you need to shoot with a minimum of 1/60 of a second. With fast moving objects such as birds or sports figures, a much faster shutter speed is necessary.
Capturing Motion
Using a slow shutter speed
On occasion you don't want to stop motion, as with photos of flowing water. To get a soft and fluid feel to the water, you need to shoot with a very slow speed.
Tags: shutter speed, shutter speed, speed dial, shutter speed dial, digital cameras, light recorded, Motion Using