6 Photography Techniques To Reduce Camera Shake Without A Tripod

Great images are sometimes ruined by something preventable: camera shake. The greatest enemy of image sharpness is vibration. Taking pictures in long-exposure time is a high risk for camera shake that might ruin your image. Your biggest challenge is to make sure your pictures are free from vibrations or camera shake, especially when shooting a fast-paced event like weddings.

6 Ways To Sharper Images In Low-Light Without Tripod

1. Increase Your ISO

When you are shooting handheld or if your camera has no stable support, we do suggest increasing your ISO rating. The main disadvantage with increasing your ISO is that it can degrade the image. There’s a high level of noise and unrealistic colors being captured.

2. Stabilize Your Camera

There are certain lenses for your DSLR that has an Image Stabilization support. Some do have it on their digital SLR body already featured. This is a great help when you don’t have a tripod with you. This feature when turned on, allows you to use a shutter speed 3-4 stops faster. Here’s a surprising video on Canon 18-55mm lens torn open to expose visuals of Image Stabilization via www.CameraTechnica.com wherein Preston Scott shows us The Science of Image Stabilization Technology

3. Hold Your Camera The Right Way

Here’s an excellent video by Joe McNally demonstrating his camera holding technique to get sharper images at slow shutter speed.

4. Use A Shutter Remote Release

Most DSLR can be triggered using a remote release of one type or another. This nifty accessory allows you to take a picture without having to press the shutter button. It minimize the risk of camera shake when you push down on the shutter button. Here’s an interesting hack using the Atari Joystick as your shutter remote for Canon users.

5. In-Camera Self-timer

An excellent alternative to shutter remote release is to use the self-timer. When activated it delays the shutter from firing and taking the picture. The interval between pressing the shutter button and when the shutter is firing (2 or 10 seconds) is enough time for any vibration to stop.

6. Mirror Lock-up

This feature is well worth using if your Digital SLR camera has it. It works by raising the mirror prior to the exposure being taken, to avoid risk of shake from its action. The main drawback to using mirror lockup is that you cannot look through the viewfinder when the mirror is locked. That’s why it is used most often with long shutter speeds. Here’s an informative article about Understanding Mirror Lock-Up via www.Luminous-Landscape.com