1/30 onwards + Mirror lock

[Eyad]

Hi All,

I've read that if you want to go for slower shutter speed (i.e. 1/30 to 1/4) you can use mirror lock to reduce the vibration.

Would that help with hand held cams (no tripods)?

When do you mostly use mirror lock? I really haven't found a case where I thought this might be usefull.

Thanks,
Eyad

[kirbinster]

It can help, but you have to get used to it. My D300 has both a mirror lockup and a delay option which causes the camera to wait about 1/2 second after you press the shutter till the shutter actually fires.

[wulf]

I don't think mirror lock will work particulary well with hand-holding. Your shaking hands are likely to be a bigger problem than the action of the shutter.

Wulf

[Cuchulainn]

Agreed. It is really designed to work best with both a heavy tripod and a remote (though a cable release will work better than pushing the button), this way no further vibration is introduced by handling the camera.

Originally Posted by wulf

I don't think mirror lock will work particulary well with hand-holding. Your shaking hands are likely to be a bigger problem than the action of the shutter.

Wulf

[PhotoNewt]

Originally Posted by Eyad

Hi All,

I've read that if you want to go for slower shutter speed (i.e. 1/30 to 1/4) you can use mirror lock to reduce the vibration.

Would that help with hand held cams (no tripods)?

When do you mostly use mirror lock? I really haven't found a case where I thought this might be usefull.

Thanks,
Eyad

Mirror lock is a function present on most SLR designed to reduce vibration introduced by the movement of the mirror during the shutter release cycle. For long exposures, is not mirror lock but a tripod (or other suitable camera support) what you need.

Mirror lock is particularly useful when you work with MACRO or telephoto lenses, as these usually will magnify any small vibration in the system. Another time I most often use it is in landscape photography in conjunction with a tripod.

As previously stated, mirror lock will be most useful when combined with a remote shutter release, but if none is available you can use the camera self-timer function. If you do, and your camera offers a choice, use the longest possible delay - 10 sec on mine.

[Eyad]

Thanks all

[inkista]

I've accidentally used it handheld a couple of times. Doesn't hurt anything. You do, however, have to remember to press the shutter twice. The first time locks up the mirror box, the second time opens the shutter. And it's a royal PITA to get to in the custom functions menu on a Canon. It's why My Menu was created.