A Beginner’s Guide to Shutter Speed in Photography

In this guide, we will introduce shutter speed for beginners and explain how to use it effectively.

What is Shutter Speed?

Shutter speed is the amount of time your camera’s shutter stays open to let light hit the sensor. It’s measured in fractions of a second (like 1/60, 1/250, 1/1000) or in full seconds for long exposures (like 1 second, 10 seconds, or even several minutes).

• Fast shutter speeds (like 1/500 or 1/1000) freeze motion, capturing sharp photos of moving subjects.
• Slow shutter speeds (like 1/30, 1 second, or longer) let in more light, but moving subjects will appear blurred.

Shutter speed affects both the brightness of your photo and how motion is captured.

The Trade-Off: Motion vs. Light

Shutter speed is always a balance:

• Faster speeds give you less light but freeze motion.
• Slower speeds give you more light but risk blur from subject movement or camera shake.

This is why photographers adjust shutter speed carefully depending on the scene.

How to Change Shutter Speed

The exact method varies by camera, but here are some basics:

• Switch to a mode that allows control: Manual (M) or Shutter Priority (S or Tv).
• On most cameras, use the main dial or control wheel to change shutter speed.
• Look in the viewfinder or screen: shutter speeds are usually displayed as fractions (like “1/250”) or whole numbers for longer exposures (“2” means 2 seconds).

If you’re not sure, check your manual. Shutter speed is one of the three most important settings, so it’s worth learning how to change quickly.

When to Use Fast Shutter Speed

You’ll want a fast shutter speed when:

• Photographing action or sports.
• Freezing wildlife, pets, or kids running around.
• Capturing moments where sharpness is more important than brightness.

In these cases, you may need to raise ISO or open your aperture wider to compensate for less light.

When to Use Slow Shutter Speed

Slow shutter speeds are useful when:

• Shooting at night or in dim lighting with a tripod.
• Creating light trails from cars or stars.
• Blurring motion artistically, like flowing water or moving crowds.

But remember: if you handhold at very slow shutter speeds, you’ll almost always get blur from camera shake. A tripod is essential for long exposures.

ad slot

Ad slot available. Use contact button for details

Quick Shutter Speed Reference

• 1/1000 and faster – Freeze very fast action (sports, birds, splashes).
• 1/250 – 1/500 – Great for everyday movement like people walking or kids playing.
• 1/60 – 1/125 – Standard handheld shots of still subjects.
• 1/30 and slower – Motion blur or low-light shots with stabilization.
• 1 second+ – Long exposures with a tripod for night scenes, light trails, or creative effects.