What Is a Shutter on a Camera?
A shutter on a camera controls how much light enters the lens and for how long it will enter. This is normally a split-second process and is used to produce special effects in the development of your pictures. Most cameras have ways to adjust the shutter time and how long it stays open.
Types
The shutter can be located in the lens, which is called a leaf shutter, also known as "between-the-lens shutter." A shutter that is positioned in front of the film is called a focal plane shutter.
Effects
The more light that enters the camera, the longer the shutter door is open. The less time the shutter is open, the less amount of light will enter the camera. This is important to know before setting your shutter speed. Consider your lighting conditions where the photograph is to be taken.
Function
A shutter cycle is a process in which the shutter doors will open, close and reset. After resetting, the shutter will be ready to open again. There is a lag time between pressing the shutter release and the camera responding to your command. This can be a problem when trying to capture a photograph of something moving quickly.
Features
The shutter also has control over the action of the photograph. The more light, or longer the shutter is open, the less action you can capture. If you are trying to capture a photograph of a moving object or someone playing sports, then adjusting the shutter speed to a faster setting will help capture the photograph before resetting for the next picture.
Prevention/Solution
Paying close attention to the light meter on a camera can help in adjusting the shutter speed. If it's too bright where the picture is going to be taken, then the shutter speed should be set to fast to not let too much light in. If it is dark, set the shutter speed slower to let in more light on the film.
Tags: shutter speed, capture photograph, more light, open less, adjusting shutter