DELIBERATE BLURS
SELF ASSIGNMENT DIRECTIONS

by Florence W Deems

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For this Assignment, we're forgetting all about trying to get a subject sharply focused! Instead, we'll try using camera movement or lens movement while the slow shutter is open.

SHUTTER SPEEDS: Anywhere from 1/25th second to 1/2 second will usually be slow enough. You will have to experiment with how fast you move the camera or lens with how much blur you'll get at these shutter speeds. For the blur result, you'll want to see streaks across the subject's edges that will blur the subject, but you can still recognize what it is. This is NOT shooting through rain-streaked glass or other clear textured surfaces.

CAMERA MOVEMENT: Set it for a slow shutter speed within the range suggested above. Then as you get the subject in the view screen, slowly move the camera up or down or diagonally. Or center the subject and then twirl the camera around while keeping the subject centered. You can also hold the camera in front of you and start walking forward and then click the shutter while keeping on walking. Or shoot from a moving car - but have someone else along to do the driving. Or if the subject is moving, try panning with the subject to keep at least part of the subject focused while blurring the background.

LENS MOVEMENT: For this you'll need a zoom lens. And a steady surface or tripod. With the camera stabilized, note how your lens zooms. Some use a push-pull movement while others use a ring that you turn. You can zoom from wide angle to telephoto, or vice versa, so try it both ways.

For additional information, please see In-Camera Blur Methods. Best of all, have fun!

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