Motion blur can be tricky when it comes to product photography. That is why today we’ll discuss not only advanced motion blur techniques, but also troubleshooting tips to help you along the way.
This is part four of an 8 article series on Motion Blur Photography for products. The techniques will apply to other types of photography as well. To find an area you’d like to learn more about, please click here for the article index.
Even with careful planning, motion blur can be difficult, especially in product photography. Here are common challenges and how to overcome them.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Overexposure During Long Exposures
- The Problem: Long shutter speeds can let in too much light, causing overexposed images.
- How to Fix It:
- Use ND Filters: Neutral Density filters reduce light entering the lens. This allows for slower shutter speeds without overexposure. In bright conditions, use stronger filters like ND64 or ND1000.
- Adjust Aperture and ISO:
- Narrow the Aperture: Increase the f-stop number (e.g., from f/8 to f/16) to let in less light.
- Lower the ISO: Keep ISO at 100 or 200 to reduce light sensitivity and avoid noise.
2. Keeping Important Areas Sharp
- The Problem: It’s challenging to keep key parts of the product sharp while introducing motion blur elsewhere.
- How to Fix It:
- Panning Technique: Move the camera along with a moving product. This keeps the product sharp and blurs the background.
- Use Flash:
- Rear Curtain Sync: Fire the flash at the end of a long exposure. This freezes the main subject while capturing motion blur in other areas.
- Freeze Motion: The flash helps capture sharp details of the product.
3. Managing Reflections and Glare
- The Problem: Shiny surfaces can cause unwanted reflections and glare, ruining the shot.
- How to Fix It:
- Polarizing Filters: These filters reduce reflections from reflective surfaces. Rotate the filter to adjust the effect.
- Adjust Lighting:
- Change Light Position: Position lights at a 45-degree angle to minimize direct reflections.
- Diffuse the Light: Use softboxes or reflectors to soften harsh highlights.
Combining Motion Blur with Sharp Focus
1. Layering Techniques
- The Challenge: Mixing motion blur with sharp focus in the same image isn’t easy.
- Solutions:
- Multiple Exposures: Take one shot with motion blur and another that’s sharp. Combine them in post-processing software. This is my preferred method.
- Selective Focus: Use a shallow depth of field to focus on a specific part of the product, letting other areas blur.
2. Practical Examples
- Example 1: Photographing a Wristwatch
- Goal: Show a watch moving (blurred) while keeping the watch face and logo sharp.
- Technique: This is a combination of rear curtain sync flash to capture motion and freeze important details, along with layering techniques in post production.
- Example 2: Shooting a Pouring Beverage
- Goal: Sharp product and glass while showing the flow of liquid.
- Technique: Use a slow shutter speed to blur the pouring action. Layer with a sharp image in post-production.
Left: Pours shot with a slow shutter – edited. Right: flash shot – Unedited RAW.
Mastering Advanced Techniques
By addressing these challenges, you can elevate your motion blur photography.
- Experiment: Try different settings and techniques.
- Practice: The more you shoot, the better you’ll become.
- Be Patient: Perfecting these methods takes time.
Take Your Product Photos to the Next Level
With these advanced tips, you’re ready to create stunning images that blend motion blur with sharp focus.
Ready to wow your audience? Start applying these techniques today!
Discover How Professional Photography Can Elevate Your Brand
Get a Custom Quote Tailored to Your Specific Needs
Take a minute to fill out the form below. Doing so will help me understand your product photography needs. Once I receive your information, I'll reach out to you personally to discuss the project in more detail and create a customized quote for you.
You may also text me at: 410-596-4127 or E-mail me at: tom@tomcrowl.com