The Ultimate Guide to How to Change Shutter Speed on Canon 1200D: Master Your Photography Skills Today!

The Canon 1200D, a popular entry-level DSLR, offers a world of creative possibilities. One of the most fundamental aspects of photography is controlling shutter speed, which determines how long the camera’s shutter stays open, allowing light to reach the sensor. This control allows you to capture the essence of motion, from freezing a fast-moving object to creating a dreamy blur of movement.
This guide delves into the intricacies of changing shutter speed on your Canon 1200D, empowering you to capture stunning images with a newfound understanding of this crucial photographic element.

Understanding Shutter Speed: The Essence of Motion

Shutter speed, measured in fractions of a second (e.g., 1/100, 1/500, 1/2000), dictates the duration of light exposure on the sensor. A faster shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000) freezes motion, while a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/15) creates a blurred effect, ideal for capturing the movement of water or conveying a sense of speed.

Navigating the Canon 1200D: Finding the Shutter Speed Dial

The Canon 1200D provides two primary ways to adjust shutter speed:
1. Shutter-Priority Mode (Tv): This mode allows you to set the shutter speed, while the camera automatically adjusts the aperture to achieve a proper exposure. To access this mode, rotate the Mode Dial on the top of your camera to the “Tv” setting.
2. Manual Mode (M): This mode gives you complete control over both shutter speed and aperture. Select the “M” setting on the Mode Dial to unleash your creative potential.

Adjusting Shutter Speed: The Dial and the Buttons

Shutter-Priority Mode (Tv):
1. With the Mode Dial set to “Tv,” look at the LCD screen. You’ll see a “Tv” icon and a number representing the current shutter speed.
2. Use the main dial on the back of the camera to adjust the shutter speed. Turning the dial clockwise increases the shutter speed, while turning it counter-clockwise decreases it.
Manual Mode (M):
1. With the Mode Dial set to “M,” you’ll see both the shutter speed and aperture displayed on the LCD screen.
2. Use the main dial on the back of the camera to adjust the shutter speed, just as in Shutter-Priority mode.
Important Note: The camera will automatically adjust the aperture based on the chosen shutter speed to maintain proper exposure. If you’re in Manual Mode, you’ll need to manually adjust both shutter speed and aperture.

Exploring the Shutter Speed Range: From Freezing Action to Capturing Motion

The Canon 1200D offers a wide range of shutter speeds, allowing you to capture a diverse array of subjects and scenarios.
Fast Shutter Speeds (1/1000 sec and faster):

• Freezing Action: Capture fast-moving subjects like birds in flight, athletes in action, or even a speeding car.
• Sports Photography: Freeze the action of a game, capturing every detail of a player’s movements.
• Wildlife Photography: Capture sharp images of animals in motion, even if they’re moving quickly.

Slow Shutter Speeds (1/30 sec and slower):

• Creating Motion Blur: Capture the movement of water, clouds, or even a moving car, creating a dreamy and artistic effect.
• Low-Light Photography: Allow more light to enter the camera sensor, enabling you to take photos in dimly lit environments.
• Light Trails: Capture the streaks of light created by moving vehicles or fireworks.

Mastering Exposure: Balancing Shutter Speed and Aperture

Shutter speed and aperture are intrinsically linked in determining exposure. As you adjust one, you’ll likely need to adjust the other to maintain a balanced exposure.
Understanding the Relationship:

• Faster Shutter Speed: Requires a wider aperture (lower f-number) to allow more light in.
• Slower Shutter Speed: Allows for a narrower aperture (higher f-number) to reduce the amount of light entering the camera.

Balancing for Optimal Exposure:

• Shutter-Priority Mode (Tv): The camera will automatically adjust the aperture to compensate for your chosen shutter speed.
• Manual Mode (M): You have complete control over both shutter speed and aperture, allowing you to fine-tune the exposure to your liking.

Beyond the Basics: Tips and Tricks for Shutter Speed Mastery

1. Use a Tripod for Slow Shutter Speeds: A tripod will help stabilize your camera, preventing blurry images caused by camera shake.
2. Experiment with Shutter Speed: Don’t be afraid to try different shutter speeds to see how they affect your images.
3. Use a Remote Shutter Release: A remote shutter release will help minimize camera shake, especially when using slow shutter speeds.
4. Understand the “Rule of 600”: This rule states that the minimum shutter speed you can use without getting camera shake is the reciprocal of your focal length. For example, if you’re using a 50mm lens, the minimum shutter speed you should use is 1/50th of a second.
5. Embrace the Creative Potential: Shutter speed is a powerful tool for capturing the essence of motion and creating unique and artistic images.

The Final Chapter: Embracing the Power of Shutter Speed

Mastering shutter speed is a cornerstone of photography. It allows you to control the flow of time within your images, capturing the fleeting moments of motion and creating captivating visual narratives. By understanding the relationship between shutter speed and aperture, and by experimenting with different settings, you can unlock the full creative potential of your Canon 1200D and transform your photography.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q1: What is the difference between Shutter-Priority and Manual Mode?
A1: In Shutter-Priority Mode (Tv), you set the shutter speed, and the camera automatically adjusts the aperture to achieve proper exposure. In Manual Mode (M), you have complete control over both shutter speed and aperture.
Q2: How do I know if my shutter speed is too slow?
A2: If your images are blurry, especially when shooting stationary subjects, your shutter speed is likely too slow. Use the “Rule of 600” or experiment with different shutter speeds to find the optimal setting for your situation.
Q3: What shutter speed should I use for photographing a waterfall?
A3: For a waterfall, a slow shutter speed (e.g., 1/2 sec to 2 sec) will create a silky smooth effect, emphasizing the movement of the water.
Q4: Can I use a slow shutter speed during the day?
A4: Yes, you can use a slow shutter speed during the day, but you’ll need to use a neutral density (ND) filter to reduce the amount of light entering the camera.
Q5: Is there a specific shutter speed for capturing fireworks?
A5: For fireworks, a slow shutter speed (e.g., 2-8 seconds) is ideal for capturing streaks of light and the burst of colors. Use a tripod and a remote shutter release for optimal results.