How to Capture Great Photos of Moving Objects: Racing Cars, Cyclists, and Runners

Written By Wayne Sables

How to Capture Great Photos of Moving Objects: Racing Cars, Cyclists, and Runners

Capturing sharp, dynamic images of fast-moving subjects like racing cars, cyclists, and runners can be both thrilling and challenging. With the right camera settings and a few key techniques, you can freeze the action or convey a sense of speed and movement in your photos.

Understand Shutter Speed

Shutter speed is the most crucial factor in motion photography. To freeze fast action, use a high shutter speed. For example:

  • Runners and cyclists: Start with 1/500 sec or faster to freeze motion[1][2].

  • Racing cars: Use 1/1300 sec or even up to 1/2000–1/4000 sec for the sharpest results[1][2][3].

If you want to introduce motion blur for a sense of speed, try slower shutter speeds:

  • For runners: Experiment with 1/60 sec to blur limbs while keeping the body sharp[2].

  • For cars: Try 1/125–1/250 sec and pan the camera to keep the vehicle sharp while blurring the background[4].

Choose the Right Camera Mode

  • Use Shutter Priority (Tv or S mode) so you can select the shutter speed and let the camera handle aperture[1].

  • In bright conditions, set ISO to 100–400. In low light, raise ISO (400–3200) to maintain fast shutter speeds without underexposing[5].

  • Set your camera to Continuous or Servo autofocus mode. This allows the camera to keep tracking your subject as it moves[1][6][4].

Master Autofocus and Burst Shooting

  • Use a single autofocus point or a small group to lock onto your subject, especially for cars and cyclists[4].

  • Switch to Continuous Drive (burst mode) to capture multiple frames in quick succession, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot[1].

Panning for Dynamic Shots

Panning is a classic technique for moving subjects. Track the subject smoothly with your camera as it passes, using a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/125–1/250 sec for cars). This keeps the subject sharp while blurring the background, emphasising speed and motion[4].

Composition and Light

  • Shoot during the “magic hour” (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light and dramatic effects[4].

  • Try different angles: head-on for drama, side-on for panning, or three-quarter views for depth[4].

  • Leave space in the frame for your subject to move into, creating a sense of direction and anticipation.

Practice Makes Perfect

There’s no substitute for practice. Experiment with different settings, angles, and techniques. Review your shots, note what works, and refine your approach.

Summary of Ideal Camera Settings

Subject

Shutter Speed

ISO (Day/Low Light)

Autofocus Mode

Technique

Racing Cars

1/1300–1/4000 sec

100–400 / 400–3200

Servo/Continuous

Panning/Freeze

Cyclists

1/500–1/2000 sec

100–400 / 400–1600

Servo/Continuous

Panning/Freeze

Runners

1/500–1/1000 sec

100–400 / 400–1600

Servo/Continuous

Freeze/Blur

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning images of moving subjects—whether you want to freeze the action or showcase the thrill of speed[1][2][4].

  1. https://www.canon.co.uk/get-inspired/tips-and-techniques/capturing-motion/      

  2. https://www.slrphotographyguide.com/how-to-photograph-moving-objects/    

  3. https://www.reddit.com/r/AskPhotography/comments/1ft6mda/tips_on_how_to_shoot_things_moving_quickly/

  4. https://www.picturecorrect.com/how-to-photograph-fast-moving-vehicles/       

  5. https://www.newspointapp.com/news/lifestyle/capturing-motion-like-a-pro-essential-camera-settings-techniques/articleshow/119111209.cms

  6. https://digital-photography-school.com/shooting-fast-moving-subjects-how-to-stop-the-blur/

Wayne Sables
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