UK Photos: Shutter speed explained in pictures and using shutter speed to your advantage.

Understanding shutter speed

Included on this page are two identical images, one shot at a fast shutter speed and the other shot at a slow shutter speed, seeing the difference will help you understand the different effects that can be achieved by taking the exact same photograph, and help you decide which you prefer.
There is not a right or wrong method, it is simply a matter of preference, and achieving the effect that you desire.

Fast shutter speeds can have the disadvantage of only allowing a large aperture due to the available light, this can reduce the depth of field of the shot, an advantage is that camera shake is almost certain to be alimented in normal conditions.

In contrast a slow shutter speed can cause overexposure (too much light) even with a small aperture, and camera shake will be a problem.
There are a few simple rules that you can follow to combat this. Firstly a tripod must be used for slow shutter speeds eliminating camera shake. Compensating overexposure is a little more tricky, if you have a minimum aperture and still getting over exposure then you will need a slower film ISO or ISO setting (digital) and or a lens filter, Neutral density (ND) or ND gradient filters are used to reduce the amount of light entering the lens. Polarizing filters will also help reduce the amount of light entering the lens. Another step you can take is to Photograph subjects that requite a slow shutter speed, in low light conditions, such as early morning or late afternoon evening. More on filters here
The speed range for running water is 1/15 - 5 seconds, however exposures of greater than 5 seconds may be used in the right conditions, giving more blur, this can be especially good for slow running water.

Using shutter speed to your advantage

Using a fast shutter speed (short exposure) will freeze a moving subject, whether it is running water or a racing car, the latter will need a faster shutter speed due to the velocity. 1/125 second is usually enough to freeze water giving it a crystal effect. where as a racing car may need a shutter speed of at least 1/500 second. This will differ depending on the relative speed, distance and whether the subject is travelling toward you or across the frame.
Using a slow shutter speed (long exposure) will have the opposite effect, running water will become a silky blur, slow shutter speeds are not suitable for sport unless you are looking for a special effect.

Shutter speed of 1/500 Second, fast/short exposure

Running water absolutely still as if frozen, with crisp sharp lines almost crystal like.

Shutter speed of 2 Seconds, slow/long exposure

The exact same shot, notice how the running water is silky smooth with rounded edges.

More examples of slow and fast shutter speed

Please Note: These are guidelines only, there are many variables, and every situation can differ vastly.

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