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Use slow-sync flash

Modern flashguns offer a whole range of features; one of the least used but most creative options is the slow-synchronization facility (slow-sync flash). This is a tried and tested method for revealing movement in your subject. The technique works by mixing a flash burst with a relatively long exposure, while moving the camera to follow the subject. The flash captures a frozen image of the moving subject, while the long exposure and camera movement ensure the general scene records with a blur. Slow-sync flash is a popular choice with action photographers shooting events such as cycling or motocross, as it adds a dynamic sense of movement to the image. Most cameras feature a slow-sync flash mode, which, when used with a shutter speed of around 1/15 to 1/30 sec, can give very interesting results.

KEIAN

The photographer followed the path of skateboard enthusiast Keian a number of times with the camera to his eye to get used to the skater’s speed and direction. Once satisfied, an exposure was taken at 1/60 sec at f/4. The relatively slow speed blurred the background while the burst of flash captured a frozen image of the subject.

Canon EOS-1DS, 28–70mm f/2.8 lens, 1/60 sec at f/4, ISO 200.