In this article over at Digital Photography School photographer Natalie Norton shows several ways to optimize the way you hand hold a camera.
Obviously the more stable the base the sharper the final shot will be. These tips are especially helpful for those of us without steady hands. You may know some of these already but, this is a great refresher. Even if you’re using a faster shutter speed it’s a good idea to take as sturdy position as possible when taking a picture.
Here are 3 options for avoiding camera shake and achieving crisp, delicious images no matter the length of the lens, no matter the shutter speed.
Shooting wide open? NO PROBLEM; I’ve got your back!! Enjoy!
1. Elbows In
As often as possible pull your elbows in to your body and exhale completely before depressing the shutter. When you’re working with a wide aperture or low shutter speed (or both), even a breath can introduce shake. Pulling your elbows tight to your body can really help keep you steady. I also press my elbows firmly into my chest for even greater stability.
2. Raise Your Left Shoulder….
I am definitely a right eyed photographer, but this tip that I learned from “The Moment It Clicks” by Joe McNally, requires that I shift for a moment to my left eye. What I’m doing here is raising my left shoulder, and bracing my left elbow into my rib-cage. For further stability, you can pull your right elbow in to your chest. As always, exhale completely before depressing the shutter to avoid introducing shake.
3. Create a Tripod With Your Knee
You can create your own tripod by resting your elbow on your knee while in a seated position. Again, bring that other elbow in for greater support.
Read the rest of this article and see example images over at Digital Photography School
Source: Digital Photography School
My Sony Am does a great job of this. I can hand hold it to 30 to 20 but after that I have to use a tripod. Good article so keep that great information coming.
Thanks John
Great information.