Go slow How slow a shutter speed is OK for a handheld shot?

This is a ‘how long is a piece of string’ question, as there are many factors that dictate the answer. I’d say it’s okay to handhold as slow as you like but when you do there are things you need to be aware of that will potentially affect the end quality of your image.

If your image shows any signs of camera shake or unwanted subject movement, you risk spoiling the photo. As soon as you drop down to shutter speeds of 1/125 sec or slower, that risk is present. The more your subject moves, the greater the risk. The longer the focal length you’re holding, the greater the risk of camera shake; and the poorer your handholding technique is, the higher the chance is that you will mess up.

What’s more relevant here is: if you’re in a situation where there is no alternative other than to handhold at a shutter speed that’s slower than ideal, what can we do to eliminate some of that risk?

The answer to this is down to your handholding technique and common sense. First of all you need to be holding the camera and lens tight into your body, so that your hand and arms are as steady as possible. Elbows should be tucked in and you must feel balanced. I even bend my knees slightly. If possible, lean on something solid, such as a wall or a tree to give yourself that extra bit of stability.

Breathe in before you take your shot, then hold your breath as you take the shot, so there is no chest movement. Don’t jab at the shutter button either, as this can cause the camera to move. Instead, press it with a gentle squeeze and make sure you pause for a moment after the shutter fires. If you’re careful with your handholding technique, you’ll certainly get away with slower shutter speeds, but there is a limit to what you can achieve, especially if your focal length is on the longer side or you’re using a macro lens. Whenever possible, keep those shutter speeds higher by increasing ISO – but when you can’t, a solid handholding technique will certainly buy you an extra stop or two.