Freeze-motion shutter speed
A moving subject smears across the frame unless the shutter is fast enough. Enter how fast and how far it is to find the shutter that freezes it.
Assumes a 0.03mm sharpness circle on 35mm. Subjects crossing the frame need the fastest shutter; those moving toward you need much less. For deliberate blur or panning, use a slower speed than this.
About this tool
A moving subject smears across the frame unless the shutter is fast enough. Enter how fast the subject moves, how far away it is, your focal length and its direction of travel, and the tool returns the shutter speed that freezes it sharply on film.
How to use it
- Enter the subject speed in kilometres per hour.
- Enter the distance to the subject and your focal length.
- Choose the direction of travel across, diagonal or toward you.
- Use the returned shutter speed, or faster, to freeze the motion.
FAQ
Why does direction change the result?
A subject crossing the frame moves fastest across the film, so it needs the fastest shutter; one moving toward you needs far less.
How do I get intentional blur instead?
Use a slower shutter than the freeze value, or pan with the subject to blur the background while keeping it sharp.