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Category: Informative Topics on Photographing People

Photography Question 

Robyn Gwilt
 

Slower Shutter vs Higher F/stop?


When shooting a group in low light/shade, would you go for a slower shutter speed to gain a higher F stop? Say, 1/30s/F16? Or, rather, go for a higher shutter speed (eg 1/160 and drop to F5.6 or thereabouts)? I would use fill flash, by the way.
Thanks


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January 13, 2007

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

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  The higher f-stop will give a greater depth of field, ensuring the entire group is in focus.


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January 13, 2007

 

Mike Rubin
  Depending on your lens, distance from the group and how may rows of people, you may want to concentrate on the f/stop. Most consumer-grade lenses get soft when you stop down to f/16 or more. I'm not an expert on portraits, but would try to use the f/stop that is considered the "sweet spot" for the lens you are using.


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January 13, 2007

 

anonymous A.
  1/30 should be quite fast enough, Robyn, unless your group is running amok! The greater depth of field is more valuable to you in this situation.


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January 13, 2007

 

Robyn Gwilt
  Thanks Donald and Mike - I realise the higher the F/stop number, the better chance of the whole group being in focus - but with a group of say 10 people, chances are someone's going to move slightly, or would you say that it wouldn't be that noticeable at 1/30s, and rather go for the F11 , 14, or 16 if possible?


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January 13, 2007

 

Robyn Gwilt
  Thanks David - sorry I replied at the same time - I guess you answered the question. As getting the whole group in focus is more important.


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January 13, 2007

 
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