What To Know
- Learning how to change shutter speed on your Canon 70D is essential for capturing stunning photographs, whether you are photographing fast-moving subjects, capturing the beauty of a starry night, or creating artistic blur effects.
- When shooting in low light conditions, you may need to use a slower shutter speed to allow enough light to reach the sensor.
- By understanding how to change shutter speed on your Canon 70D and experimenting with different shutter speeds, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities in your photography.
The Canon 70D is a powerful DSLR that offers a wide range of creative possibilities. One of the most fundamental aspects of photography is understanding and controlling shutter speed. This crucial setting determines how long the camera’s shutter remains open, influencing the amount of light that reaches the sensor and ultimately affecting the final image. Learning how to change shutter speed on your Canon 70D is essential for capturing stunning photographs, whether you are photographing fast-moving subjects, capturing the beauty of a starry night, or creating artistic blur effects.
Understanding Shutter Speed and its Impact
Shutter speed, measured in fractions of a second, represents the duration for which the camera’s shutter remains open. A faster shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000 second) allows less light to enter the sensor, freezing fast-moving subjects. Conversely, a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/30 second) permits more light to reach the sensor, blurring motion and creating a dreamy effect.
How to Change Shutter Speed on Your Canon 70D: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Switch to Shutter-Priority Mode (Tv): On your Canon 70D, locate the mode dial on the top of the camera. Rotate it to the “Tv” setting, which stands for “Time Value” or Shutter-Priority mode. This mode allows you to control the shutter speed while the camera automatically adjusts the aperture to maintain proper exposure.
2. Use the Main Dial: The main dial on the top right of the camera is used to adjust the shutter speed. Turn the dial to increase or decrease the shutter speed. The shutter speed will be displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD screen.
3. Understanding the Shutter Speed Display: The shutter speed is displayed as a fraction, for instance, 1/125, 1/250, or 1/500. The higher the denominator, the faster the shutter speed. You can also find slower shutter speeds displayed as whole numbers, such as 1, 2, 4, or 8 seconds.
4. Experiment with Different Shutter Speeds: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shutter speeds to see how they affect your images. Try photographing a moving object at different shutter speeds to observe the impact on motion blur.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shutter Speed
- Freezing Motion: For capturing fast-moving subjects, such as birds in flight or sporting events, choose a faster shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000 second or faster). This will freeze the action and prevent blur.
- Creating Motion Blur: To create a sense of movement or blur, use a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/30 second or slower). This technique is particularly effective for capturing waterfalls, flowing water, or moving vehicles.
- Capturing Low-Light Scenes: When shooting in low light conditions, you may need to use a slower shutter speed to allow enough light to reach the sensor. In this case, a tripod is essential to prevent camera shake.
- Understanding the Relationship with Aperture: Remember that shutter speed and aperture are interconnected. When you change one, the other will adjust automatically in Shutter-Priority mode to maintain proper exposure.
Beyond Shutter-Priority Mode: Manual Control
While Shutter-Priority mode is a great starting point for controlling shutter speed, you can take your photography to the next level by using Manual mode (M). This mode gives you complete control over both shutter speed and aperture, allowing you to fine-tune your settings for optimal results.
The Power of Shutter Speed: Creative Applications
- Long Exposure Photography: Slow shutter speeds (e.g., 1 second or longer) are used in long exposure photography to capture light trails, star trails, or smooth out moving water.
- Panning: Panning involves moving the camera along with a moving subject while using a slow shutter speed. This creates a blurred background and a sharp subject, conveying a sense of motion.
- Light Painting: Light painting involves using a light source to create patterns or shapes in a long exposure photograph.
Mastering the Canon 70D: Shutter Speed as Your Creative Tool
By understanding how to change shutter speed on your Canon 70D and experimenting with different shutter speeds, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities in your photography. Whether you are capturing fast-paced action, creating artistic blur effects, or exploring the beauty of low-light scenes, mastering shutter speed is a crucial step in honing your photographic skills.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Possibilities
The Canon 70D is a versatile camera that offers a wide range of creative possibilities. By mastering the art of changing shutter speed, you can elevate your photography to new heights. Embrace the flexibility of Shutter-Priority and Manual modes, and experiment with different shutter speeds to discover the unique effects they can create. Remember, shutter speed is a powerful tool at your disposal – use it wisely to capture the world around you in all its glory.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the best shutter speed for general photography?
A: There is no single “best” shutter speed. The ideal shutter speed depends on the specific shooting situation, including the subject’s movement, available light, and desired effect. For general photography, a shutter speed between 1/125 and 1/250 second is often a good starting point.
Q: Can I change shutter speed while shooting video on the Canon 70D?
A: No, you cannot directly change shutter speed while recording video on the Canon 70D. The shutter speed is automatically set to a specific value based on the frame rate you choose. However, you can adjust the shutter angle, which affects the amount of motion blur in your video.
Q: How do I know if my shutter speed is too slow or too fast?
A: If your image is blurry, your shutter speed may be too slow. Conversely, if your image is too dark, your shutter speed may be too fast. You can use the camera’s built-in histogram or the exposure meter to check if your image is properly exposed.
Q: Can I use a remote shutter release to prevent camera shake when using slow shutter speeds?
A: Yes, using a remote shutter release can help minimize camera shake, especially when using slow shutter speeds. This is particularly helpful for long exposure photography, where even the slightest movement can affect the final image.
Q: What are some good resources for learning more about shutter speed and photography?
A: There are many excellent resources available for learning more about shutter speed and photography. Online photography communities, tutorials, and books are great places to start. Consider exploring websites like Digital Photography School, PetaPixel, or YouTube channels dedicated to photography education.
