PANNING FOR GOLD-PHOTOGRAPHICALLY SPEAKING

PHOTO TIP - CAMERA PANNING is instrumental in photographing moving subjects. As I noted in my last PHOTO TIP, the introduction of motion blur is essential whenever you desire a sense of dynamic movement in an image. If all elements of an image are rendered sharply, the image will be static. The usual method for imparting motion blur to a portion of an image while simultaneously rendering other parts of the image in relatively sharp focus is the technique of camera panning. Panning simply means following a moving subject through the lens of the camera along a horizontal path. The technique of panning works best when the subject is moving in a direction parallel to the camera's film plane or sensor surface. The act of panning can produce amazing results. However, there is a relatively steep learning curve. Getting the technique right is going to take plenty of practice. While it is not my purpose to provide a tutorial as there is ample material available online (Google CAMERA PANNING TECHNIQUE), I will give you a few pointers. First, begin with a relatively slow shutter speed (say 1/30 - 1/15 second). A good subject to practice on is moving cars. position yourself off the side of the street facing parallel to the path, the cars will be taking. Assuming your camera has automatic focus tracking, press the shutter halfway an smoothly follow the car as it approaches. When the car reaches the optimum position, release the shutter. As you do so, continue to follow the car with the camera. The secret here is a smooth follow through. Again, the the essential requirement is practice - practice - and more practice. LARRY ELKINS ELKINSPHOTOS FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY