Blurring Movement
Sometimes a shooting situation may require a longer exposure than the ambient light permits. For example, a lengthy shutter speed to exaggerate motion for creative effect. A neutral density (ND) filter is the perfect solution.
An ND filter works by reducing the amount of light entering the camera. For example, a 0.3 ND filter is equivalent to a reduction of one stop of light, a 0.6 ND two and so on.
Depending on the subject, you will probably want an exposure of one second or more. However, even in dull light and a medium speed film, you may not be able to set a shutter speed this slow, even at your lens’ smallest aperture, without overexposing.
Your camera’s meter will automatically adjust for the reduction in light, but a sturdy tripod is essential to keep shots shake free. For really long exposures, try combining ND filters.
richard
In terms of sports photography, blurring the background is easy...after lots of practice.
Main thing is to follow the object, keeping your motion smooth and continue to move after youve hit the shutter.
Keep your breathing steady, and stand in a position so that you have a good range of movement. If your lens has IS or equivalent, then it may be wise to have this on as well (IS setting 2 in most cases).
In my case i use the following,
ISO200 (in good light) ISO 400 otherwise.
AF setting,
F9 to F5.6
IS on (setting 2)
Stand with the object passing me at 90 degrees. (remember for motion)
Half press the shutter on the object at -90 to get focus lock and continue to hold, starting to move with the object...then when happy hold down the shutter and continue to move through to +90.
Sounds simple, but in reality its not espescially when your at a crowded event!
