What is the effect of using a slow shutter speed in photography?

Using a slow shutter speed in photography allows for a longer exposure time, which has a specific impact on how motion and light are captured in an image. The primary effect of this is the creation of motion blur, which can provide a sense of movement or dynamism to a photo. For example, when photographing a moving subject, a slow shutter speed will capture the motion, resulting in a blurred effect that conveys speed or fluidity, rather than freezing the action.

Additionally, a slow shutter speed increases the camera's light intake. With a longer exposure, the sensor is able to gather more light, which is particularly advantageous in low-light conditions. This can enhance the overall brightness of the image, allowing for detailed captures where a faster shutter speed might result in underexposure.

In the context of the other choices, using a slow shutter speed does not freeze fast motion; instead, it captures the movement as blur. It cannot create sharp images in all lighting conditions since excessive motion or too much light can lead to overexposure or undesirable blur. While a slow shutter speed does not completely eliminate camera shake, it relies on stability for a clear shot; thus, some methods, such as using a tripod, are often recommended when utilizing this technique.