In the world of photography, we spend a lot of time polishing our skills and building kits that help us take the sharpest, crispest photos. But there are cases where a blurry image is exactly what you're after.
We're talking about motion blur — the best way to show that your subject is on the move. Here's how to photograph motion and add a dramatic, dynamic effect to your images.
What is motion blur in photography?
Capturing visible motion in photography isn't new. You can see hints of it in very early analogue images, though it was often the result of limited technology rather than intentional technique.
Chances are you've seen plenty of intentional blur photography in modern times. The most popular example is waterfall photography, where photographers go to great lengths to capture cascading water in a soft, dreamy blur while keeping the rest of the image sharp and still. It's a signature of the genre, and a big part of why waterfall images are so compelling.
Car photography is another great example. Photographers often use a technique called panning — using a slow shutter speed while moving the camera alongside the subject as it passes. The result is a sharp subject against a motion-blurred background, conveying speed and energy in a single frame.
How to take motion photos: Why shutter speed matters
Capturing motion in photography is all about shutter speed. If you're new to manual photography, shutter speed is one of the three settings in the exposure triangle, alongside ISO and aperture. Together, these settings help you achieve a balanced, well-exposed image — and each can be tweaked to achieve a specific look.
Shutter speed refers to how long your camera's shutter stays open when taking a photo. A fast shutter speed like 1/250s means the shutter is open for only a brief moment, freezing fast-moving subjects for a crisp result. A slow shutter speed like 1/8s keeps the shutter open longer — any movement during that time will register as blur. Importantly, stationary elements in the frame will remain sharp; a slow shutter speed only blurs movement.
As for which shutter speed to use, there's no single right answer — only guidance. We recommend starting at 1/60s, reviewing your results, and slowing down further from there until you achieve the effect you're after.
What gear do you need to capture motion in photos?
A few key items will help you capture motion successfully:
A camera with manual settings. You'll need a camera that lets you adjust settings manually. Some advanced compact cameras allow this, but a DSLR or mirrorless model gives you the most control and flexibility. They're also designed for quick adjustments on the fly — important when you're reacting to fast-moving subjects.
A lens with a large aperture. While you can capture motion with any lens, a fast lens with a wide maximum aperture gives you more flexibility when adjusting shutter speed. These lenses also perform well in low light and allow for a shallow depth of field, making them a versatile addition to any kit.
A tripod. When shooting with a slow shutter speed, mounting your camera on a tripod is essential. Without one, camera shake will blur the entire image — not just the moving elements. A tripod also frees up your hands to explore different angles and compositions.
A Neutral Density (ND) filter. ND filters are the secret weapon of motion photography. They screw onto the front of your lens and reduce the amount of light entering the camera, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds in bright conditions without overexposing your image. They also enhance texture and tonal contrast, producing rich, vibrant results.
Try your hand at motion photography today
Capturing movement can be tricky at first, but practice makes perfect. Once you've got a feel for shutter speed, explore our range of digital cameras, tripods, and ND filters to build out your kit. Or visit a Ted's Cameras store and one of our friendly experts will help guide you to the right gear for your style of shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shutter speed should I use for motion blur?
It depends on the subject and the amount of blur you want. A good starting point is 1/60s — slow enough to introduce visible blur on moving subjects while keeping stationary elements sharp. For more dramatic blur (such as silky waterfalls), try 1/4s to 1s. For light trails at night, 10–30 seconds is common. Always use a tripod at these slower speeds.
What is panning in photography?
Panning is a technique where you track a moving subject with your camera during a slow-shutter exposure. The result is a relatively sharp subject against a motion-blurred background — a classic effect in car, cycling, and sports photography. It takes practice to get right, but the results are striking. Start with a shutter speed around 1/30s–1/60s and experiment from there.
Do I need a tripod for motion blur photography?
For most motion blur techniques, yes — a tripod is essential. Without one, camera shake will blur the entire frame, not just the moving subject. The exception is panning, where you deliberately move the camera to track the subject. Even then, a monopod can help stabilise your movement for more consistent results.
What is an ND filter and why do I need one for motion photography?
An ND (Neutral Density) filter reduces the amount of light entering your lens, allowing you to use slower shutter speeds in bright conditions without overexposing your image. Without one, achieving a 1-second exposure in daylight would be nearly impossible at any reasonable aperture or ISO. ND filters come in different strengths — a 6-stop or 10-stop filter is ideal for daytime long exposure and motion blur work.
Can I capture motion blur with a smartphone?
Yes, to a degree. Some smartphones offer a Pro or Manual mode that lets you control shutter speed, which is what you need for motion blur. Results vary by device, but it's a great way to experiment with the technique. For best results, use a tripod or stable surface, and look for a phone with a dedicated long-exposure or light trail mode.