What is Shutter Lag?

Photographer: Al Jurina
Reader Q&A

A very common issue that many photographers struggle with is the issue of what is called, "Shutter Lag.". Shutter lag is the time it takes from when you press the shutter button on your camera to when it actually captures the photos. Many cheaper cameras and camera phones have issues with this, that even span the time of a couple of seconds! This may not be much of an issue with still life and landscape photography, but when you are photographing a moving subject, then it can be a real nuisance.

For most cameras, there isn't much that can be done to remove the shutter lag, as it is a permanent function of the camera. However, here are a couple of tips to help reduce shutter lag, or at least get a better shot when dealing with it:

1. Pre-focus: On many cameras, the shutter button can lock focus by pressing it only half-way down.
By doing this, you can reduce the camera's work by handling the focus ahead of time. This will also help you get a sharper shot. With action, you should point your camera towards the area where you expect the action to occur, and then pre-focus by pressing the shutter half-way down. It will then lock focus. When the action occurs, press the button the full way down to activate the shutter.

2. Pre-visualize: This means to anticipate your shot. By knowing what you want to take a photo of, you can begin to improve your timing. If you then apply the technique mentioned above, you should come out more successful in getting what you want.

3. Know your delay: If you know that your camera has a certain lag to taking the shot, you can anticipate that time it takes and use that knowledge to your advantage. This is not a perfect technique, but with practice you can at least nail a shot here or there.

In summary, there isn't much you can do about shutter lag if it is an inexpensive camera problem, but if you practice a few of the tips above, you can at least work out a decent shot now and again.


Popular posts from this blog

What camera should I buy? (2018 edition)

Image
This is probably one of the most asked questions by anyone looking to get into photography. To be fair, there are way too many choices out there, so let's do our best to tackle this question as objectively as possible. First off, I need to let you readers know that I have owned and used a tremendous amount of different cameras over the years. From smartphone cameras to point-and-shoot models to industry-leading DSLRs to mirrorless and everything in-between. That being said, I obviously have my preferences. This post will not spend time on that. I'll try to be as quick and concise as possible. Here goes: 1. Get what you can afford, but be reasonable. Seriously. If you can't afford much, I would advise save up to expand your options. If you are looking for the perfect camera, then you will be majorly disappointed, because it doesn't exist. I DO know that unless you are willing to spend more than 100 dollars, then you probably wont' find anything worth buying...
Read more

How to photograph your family holiday time.

Image
In my family history, one of the most consistent activities that occurred during the holidays is that the camera was ever-present. You knew that you were getting your photo taken during this time. As time when on and I began to get into photography, I joined in this trend as well. Soon, however, I started to find myself asking, "what should I focus on for these photos?" This was because every holiday was looking the same. I wanted to somehow make holiday photos a little more interesting. Not just for the viewer, but for me as the photographer. Here are a few tips that I have found useful for keeping holiday photos a bit more interesting for everyone: 1. Start a tradition: These kinds of photos, although kind of cheesy, can be fun. Get the kids in front of the tree, pose everybody with wrapping paper head-pieces, or come up with a new idea. The tradition photos have the less likely chance of promoting any grumbles, as they are "tradition after all". Try t...
Read more