Photography Challenge by bmac62
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
Old problem always looking for a smart photographer.
3D modelers want propeller blur (prop blur) on their aircraft renders and get it. Here's an example from neiwil's gallery. Thanks Neil for the example.
Photographers want it too. But here's been my problem.
Top: Shutter speed usually above 500 provides a nice, crisp, focused airpalne in the air BUT stops the propeller too. Makes the plane look like it is gliding without power.
Center: Shutter speed usually around 100 or less yields excellent prop blur and a perfectly focused aircraft when the plane's engine is running on the ground.
Bottom: Shutter speed slow enough to get prop blur in the air again yields fine prop blur but a blurry mess for the plane typically flying at 100mph or faster.
Now, before you suggest the use of a tripod...which might work to some degree, trying to follow a plane in the air, with a telephoto zoomed way out from a tripod is one huge challenge (and one we'd all be sick of in short order).
Anybody up for trying this and showing us your results? We in the northern hemisphere are in the middle of airshow season. If you don't have any big, fast planes flying in your area...you can still go to your nearest general aviation airfield and try your luck on little, light planes out flying for the fun of it. Just make sure they have propellers. LOL
Bill:)
"A Quarter to Two"

Comments (33)
I'll leave photography to you :) Outstanding presentation of the issues!!!
Hmm - thinks - airfield with prop planes.... I think I might just wait for our summer! The central one is perfect! The challenge will be remembered! Clive
A fine tutorial, Bill. It's tough to get a good shot with prop blur at the airshow.