1st attempt at panning shot

[Team PCBeach]

I am new to DSLR and got this shot while out practicing with our new camera. I really wanted to try a panning shot and came across this opportunity while out shooting birds. The only PP that has been done is a crop. Please let me know your thoughts on how well I captured the motion.

EXIF:
Canon T1I w/ 55-250is
Shutter Priority
1/30 sec
F/11
Focal length: 250mm
ISO:100

Thanks.

[Chip]

Any time you can read writing on the subject of a panning shot, the shot is a good one. You captured the motion well.

The only critiques I have is that (1) a 3:2 of 16:9 crop, with some more room on the right, might be an improvement; and (2) if possible, it's helpful to not shoot into the sun as directly as it seems you did here. But, these are relatively minor to what is a good panning photo.

[Team PCBeach]

Thanks for the comments. I recropped in 16:9 and I do like it more. Chops a little off the top and bottom that really didn't add to the photo. It also added a little behind the boat that helped with the perception of speed.

Couldn't help the sun position. No access on the other side of the water as it is all houses.

[Chip]

Definitely understand about the position of the sun. Sometimes you have to do the best with the situation at hand.

[kingmsport]

Great shot. Like Chip said anytime you can read something on the moving object, you did a pretty good job. Another good place to practice is taking pictures of cars on the highway. It is all about being smoothe and not stopping the pan when you pres the shutter button. The other key is to keep the object stationary in the viewfinder. I try to line up one of the focus indicators in my viewfinder on the object and keep it on the object as I pan. that way the autofocus locks on the "stationary" portion of the image. Also try turning on continuous fire function. Here is one of my shots.