What is a common technique to capture motion in photography?

Using a slower shutter speed to create a sense of movement is a common technique in photography that captures the dynamism of a subject. This approach allows for the blurring of moving elements in the frame while keeping other parts sharp, which emphasizes the motion and can convey a feeling of speed or action. When photographing a subject in motion, a slower shutter speed can create a visual effect that illustrates the trajectory or flow of movement, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the image.

For example, photographing a cyclist racing by with a slower shutter speed can result in a striking image where the background is blurred, suggesting rapid motion, while the bike itself may remain defined, offering context. This technique is particularly effective in sports or nature photography, where conveying movement is essential to the narrative of the photo.

While using higher shutter speeds yields clear and sharp images, it does not effectively convey motion. Similarly, utilizing a flash may freeze a moment in time, but it would not provide the same sense of movement as a slower shutter speed. Fixed focus also maintains stillness, which contrasts with the intention of capturing motion. These other methods serve different purposes and techniques within photography, but for capturing the essence of movement, employing a slower shutter speed is the most effective choice.