Manual Mode: Shutter Speed


Yesterday, we looked at how aperture will affect your exposure when you are in manual mode. The next setting we need to examine is Shutter Speed. Shutter speed is simply that: the speed at which your shutter opens and closes when you make an exposure. Shutter speed is measured over time, and is often referred to as "Time Value" (Tv). Generally, you take photos in fractions of a second, but that all depends on what you are photographing. For now, let's talk about light and shutter speed.

Simply put, the faster your shutter speed, the less light you have. The slower your shutter speed, the more light you have. When it comes to exposure, you must choose a balance with your shutter speed that will allow your camera to get enough light for the exposure and also to be quick enough to not let your exposure be blurry. This is naturally a balancing act with photographers, adjusting both the shutter speed AND the aperture to get them an accurate exposure. To adjust these settings, you will need to consult your manual, as different cameras allow you that control in different ways. Your assignment is to figure out the best aperture and shutter speeds that can make your exposure work. It's not a guessing game, so for extra credit refer to the "light meter" that is in your camera (also see your manual for this). Next week we will look at another value that we can control in manual mode that can help you get better exposures, but for now, try to control your aperture and shutter.

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