Capture sharper shots
Control shutter speed, aperture and focusing for crisp photographs
With the evolution of Canon-fit Image Stabilized lenses and the revolution of in-camera image stabilization in the new cutting-edge EOS R bodies, Canon has made it even easier to take sharp images when you’re shooting handheld. But even the high-level of stabilization that’s possible to achieve with the likes of the EOS R6 can’t make up for poor technique when shooting without a tripod.
The shutter speed that’s used to take a picture is still important, both technically and creatively. If the shutter speed is too slow to freeze the subject then you’ll still end up with a slightly soft or a completely blurred result.
As a general rule of thumb, you should make sure that the shutter speed is equivalent to or faster than the focal length being used, in order to reduce the effects of camera shake. Although IS has turned this on its head somewhat (see the opposite page), supporting the camera and lens properly during an exposure, of course, are also essential.
Good technique includes supporting your Canon lens underneath with one hand, standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, and slowly rolling your finger onto the shutter release button. If the shot isn’t time-sensitive, set the two-second self-timer so that you have time to support the camera fully with your other hand after you’ve pressed the button.
Of course, sometimes you might want to use a much longer exposure time for artistic effect. While you may be able to get away with a handheld exposure that lasts 1/2 or 1 sec, if your shot requires an exposure that lasts several seconds or even minutes, nothing but a tripod will do. Even then, it’s best to be systematic with your technique. Give all the joints, not just the legs, a once-over to make sure they’re tightly fastened, and double-check the knobs on the head. Finally, use the self-timer, a remote release or, if your camera has Wi-fi, Canon’s Camera Connect app to fire the camera without touching it.