Panning photography is a technique used to capture a moving subject in sharp focus while blurring the background to convey a sense of motion. This effect is achieved by following (or "panning") the subject with the camera while using a slower shutter speed. Aviation photography often uses very fast shutter speeds so that the photographed subject is “frozen”. When you start using slightly slower shutter speeds and you follow your subject, you get movement in your photo because the background becomes blurry while the subject is still sharp. It takes practice and patience to develop a good panning technique, but the shots captured will be worth it!
The panning technique works best within aviation photography especially with aircraft that have propellers or with helicopters since these have moving parts. The longer the shutter speed, the more movement will be seen in the propeller or in the blades of the helicopter. Side-to-side panning is the most common technique, but you can also pan up and down or even diagonally.
Ten tips for beautiful panning shots!
Select a Slow Shutter Speed Typically between 1/15s to 1/60s, depending on the speed of the subject.
Set Continuous Autofocus (AF-C/AI-Servo) This helps keep the subject sharp while moving.
Burst mode
Set your camera to continuous shooting (burst mode) to increase the chance of getting a sharp shot.
Stability Stand with feet shoulder-width apart for the best stability when shooting handheld.
Use a Tripod or Handheld with a Steady Motion A monopod can help maintain smooth panning.
Adjust ISO to compensate the slow shutter speed Best ISO for panning photography is between ISO 100 and ISO 400.
Follow the Subject Smoothly Move your camera at the same speed as the subject while pressing the shutter.
Practice with Different Speeds The slower the shutter, the more motion blur in the background.
It only works with a background Make sure you have a nice background if you want to use this technique, trees, mountains or buildings can give a beautiful blurry background.
Avoid objects in the foreground!
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