This image has a panning effect, which enhances motion.
The Nikon D40 is a mid-level DSLR camera. It offers the benefits of digital photography, such as instant image review, without the high price tag of more advanced models. Although taking photos of moving objects with the Sports shooting mode will work in most situations, it is generally easier to use Manual mode to create the shot you want. The best action photos use a technique called "panning", where the photographer follows the subject with the camera. This results in a crisp subject while the background is blurred, resulting in a feeling of motion. You can also use the automatic sports shooting mode.
Instructions
Panning
1. Turn on the camera and rotate the shooting dial to the "M" to place the camera in manual mode.
2. Rotate the clickwheel near the top of the camera to change the shutter speed, which is displayed on the LCD display. Set the speed to a number faster than 1/100 of a second. While it is possible to take action photos at lower speeds, 1/100 of a second or above is easier.
3. Press the shutter button halfway to gain focus. For best results, set the focus manually by rotating the focus ring on the lens.
4. Aim the camera at the subject and follow it as it moves, to keep it within the frame.
5. Press the shutter button fully to take the photo. Review the image and increase the shutter speed if the subject still has blur.
Automatic Sports Mode
6. Rotate the shooting dial to the sports mode, which has an icon of a running man.
7. Aim the camera at the subject and press the shutter button halfway to gain focus. For best results, manually set the focus before the action occurs if you can predict where your subject will be.
8. Wait for a brief pause in the action, if possible, to take the picture. This includes the peak of a jump or an about-face of the subject.
9. Press the shutter button fully to take the photo. Hold down the shutter button to take several pictures in quick succession.
10. Review the images on the LCD screen. Since the camera's settings are adjusted automatically in this mode, you'll need to improve your timing to get better photos.
Tags: shutter button, action photos, best results, button fully, button fully take, button halfway, button halfway gain