Shutter release techniques for handheld shots

[sk66]

Thought I'd share a technique I use which is very simple and an alternative to "rolling the shutter".

For those of you who don't know what "rolling the shutter" is:
You place your finger at the front or rear edge of the shutter release button and roll the finger across the button to press/fire.
The point is to eliminate the camera shake which results from "jabbing" the shutter release. When the shutter release is pressed with the finger tip the finger "travels" with the shutter button, and then comes to a "sudden stop" at the bottom of the travel. This results in a "shock wave" and camera vibration.

I find "rolling" uncomfortable and unnatural but, no matter what else I do, if I just "press" the shutter release with my finger tip it results in more camera movement.


My technique:
I simply place my finger "across" the shutter release button so that it is resting on the camera on either side. My finger tip is unable to descend into the button recess. With my finger placed this way the "pad" of my finger is able to activate the release without any "large" movement...it's really just a pressure change, and the resulting camera shake is greatly diminished.
Combined with proper holding/standing technique I am able to hand hold well below "rule of thumb" shutter speeds.

Hope this helps someone.

[nikonkid]

Thanks for the tip!

I find the 2sec timer very helpful, as long as you have a minute to plan the shot

[NgaiHill]

Hmm, I have always used this technique, didn't realise I was doing anything different to everyone else. Never heard of the rolling technique, must give it a try sometime.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by nikonkid

Thanks for the tip!

I find the 2sec timer very helpful, as long as you have a minute to plan the shot

There IS a point where a tripod/ remote/timer is required regardless of technique.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by NgaiHill

Hmm, I have always used this technique, didn't realise I was doing anything different to everyone else. Never heard of the rolling technique, must give it a try sometime.

Actually, most "jab" the release with their fingertip. It's surprising how much "shake" that can cause. I find it particularly noticeable with long lenses.
I don't find "rolling" to be any better......but I dislike that method anyways.

[SwissJon]

Anything less than 1/60th and I use the remote release (it's always in my camera bag cos it's so small) even if I'm holding the camera.. You can get a much better grip on the camera if you release the shutter with your left thumb not your right index finger.. Also means that you can jam your camera into places that make the photo much more steady.. Car roofs etc.

Think I've probably been using this "rolling" technique for years.. Half pressing the shutter button to set the focus/exposure then gently pressing to take the shot has the same effect. Think of taking a photograph like being in a rifle shooting contest.. Gently on the trigger until you hear the gun go off and you'll hit the target dead centre.