How do I photograph a moving car sharp with blurred light trails/background?
Asked 2/19/2018
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I’ve seen photos of moving cars where the car stays relatively sharp, but the background or lights streak into motion blur. I know how to get blur with a slow shutter speed, but I’m not sure how to keep the car in focus at the same time. What is this technique called, and is it done in-camera or does it require Photoshop?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
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This is motion blur caused by 'panning'. Ideally, you would use a tripod or monopod and track the car (panning) as it's moving with a relatively slow shutter speed. The background will blur as you move the camera, but the car will stay in focus as it's relative position with the camera hasn't changed.
The slower your shutter speed the harder it will be to keep the vehicle in focus, and the faster the vehicle will also be harder to keep in focus. You can start at something like 1/30s and then try lowering the shutter speed. It will take some practice to find the right balance between the speed of your subject and your shutter speed to get the effect you want.
Try reading this article for more details.
Originally by user13908. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user13908
8y ago
0
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This is usually done with panning. You use a relatively slow shutter speed and move the camera to follow the car as it passes. Because you’re matching the car’s movement, the car can stay fairly sharp while the background and lights blur into streaks.
A good starting point is around 1/30 second, then experiment with slower speeds for more blur. The slower the shutter speed, or the faster the car is moving, the harder it is to keep the subject sharp.
A few practical tips:
- Track the car smoothly as it moves
- Press the shutter while continuing the motion
- Follow through after the shutter press instead of stopping abruptly
- A tripod or monopod can help make the movement smoother
So the effect is primarily achieved in-camera, not necessarily in Photoshop. It does take practice to get the right balance between shutter speed, subject speed, and smooth camera movement.
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