PANNING PHOTOGRAPHY
/Introduction
Panning is a technique used to convey a message of speed. Panning doesn’t just show movement, it also requires camera movement in the form of tracking.
Technique
The photographer tracks the moving subject horizontally from left to right or right to left with the aim of blurring the background to show speed and motion whilst keeping the subject in focus. Either use a zoom lens or get close to the subject so that you can move the camera faster.
A tripod maybe of use here to give you the lateral motion as the subject passes by. It will prevent any unwanted vertical motion.
With this technique you will want to have your image stabilisation on.
Unlike intentional camera movement (‘ICM’) at least some part of the subject must be in sharp focus.
Panning requires a choice by the photographer as to what’s in focus and what isn’t and where the viewer’s attention will fall. For example, with a horse and rider, a decision will have to be made as to what part of the horse, or the rider is in focus.
Panning doesn’t work with blank backgrounds, such as a sky, because there’s no sense of movement or speed.
Photographing an object like a train moving at speed towards the photographer is not considered panning, as the photographer is not tracking the subject.
Settings
• A good panning photo requires a relatively slow shutter speed. 1/30 - 1/80 is a good starting point. If your shutter speed is too slow or your aperture too wide, you will get nothing in focus and move into the realm of ICM.
• Having a greater depth of field will also be an advantage to help keep the subject in focus and the background blurry.
• Set the auto focus to continuous and the focus one one-point spot focus.
• Set ISO as low as possible.
• Set the drive mode to high speed continuous.
• Use an ND or polarising filter to help get your shutter speed slow enough.
• It is important that the camera’s tracking should match the speed of the subject and move as it does.
Consider backgrounds. Backgrounds that contrast with the subject help the subject stand out against the background. If the subject’s colour is similar to the background, it will blend in and not give you the result you intended.
Suggested subjects
Horse racing, horse jumping, motor sports, cycling, basketball and action sports or birds coming into land. In fact, any object that moves at speed.
Panning photography captures dynamic motion and brings storytelling and excitement to an image.
Amanda Luker 2025