Shutter Speed Question

[stanw]

From my limited knowledge of working with DV/HD cams, 1/60 is considered a normal speed. I needed more light in my image so I adjusted down to 1/15. From what I understand, this keeps the shutter open longer, so images are more prone to blur if they are moving. Are there any other issues with adjusting the shutter to this speed? If it is simply an issue of needing more light would you adjust to this speed? OR would you do everything you could to improve the lighting before adjusting the shutter?

Thanks.

[John Froton]

I would suggest leaving the shutter speed at double the framerate (60 for 30fps / 48 for 24fps) and opening the iris via the exposure control as a means to increase exposure. If you've got the iris fully open and still need more light (are underexposed) then I would try to add more light as a first option. If that is not an option, I would either use the gain boost or slow the shutter speed down a little. Just remember that if the shutter speed goes down to the framerate speed or lower, you will end up with a lot of motion blur if there is any movement in your shot.

[negative]

What you said is 100% correct, the shutter is open longer letting in more light but the motion in your shot will more blurry. It's all by personal preference, I find it not a big deal if I'm in a bind or I'm loosing light, I think the blur is more acceptable then the noise from using gain.

[stanw]

I am testing lowering the shutter to get more light in and it does not seem to be blurring too much. I am shooting an interview type format that just has a talking head. Generally speaking, is this enough "movement" to cause blurring when the shutter speed is lowered?

[Take_1]

Its a choice that is subjective. Do you like how it looks? If yes, then go with it. :)

[John Froton]

I am shooting an interview type format that just has a talking head. Generally speaking, is this enough "movement" to cause blurring when the shutter speed is lowered?

No, not really. The blur is more noticeable with exaggerated movements such as in sports videography. You may notice blurring when an interviewee uses hand gestures and such though.