As a professional wedding photographer based in Frisco, Texas, many of the couples I work with at Charlie Patric Photography often ask me about the technical aspects of my craft. One question that comes up a lot is, how does shutter type affect wedding photographs? This blog post will explore the impact of shutter type on your wedding photography – electronic versus mechanical.
An Overview of Shutter Types
Electronic Shutters
Often found in mirrorless cameras, electronic shutters work by turning the camera sensor’s photo-detection capability on and off. They operate silently and rapidly, and since they have no moving parts, they are remarkably reliable.
Mechanical Shutters
Conversely, mechanical shutters work physically. A curtain moves across the sensor to expose it to light. This process makes a noticeable sound.
Effects on Wedding Photography
Quiet Shooting
When shooting in a church or during intimate moments, loud shutter noises can be intrusive. Here, the electronic shutter’s quiet operation can be beneficial. However, a silent shutter may not always be ideal, specifically for portraits. Sometimes, the click helps subjects realize that a photo has been taken.
Shutter Speed
Shooting moving objects such as dancing shots or a bouquet toss requires fast shutter speeds. Electronic shutters can reach speeds that mechanical ones can’t. Nevertheless, mechanical shutters capture motion more naturally due to their progressive scanning nature.
Image Distortions
If you’re capturing fast-moving objects, electronic shutters might produce distortions due to the rolling shutter effect. Mechanical shutters, in comparison, are less prone to distortion.
Shooting in Bright Conditions
During sunny outdoor weddings, the mechanical shutter handles high-contrast scenes better. With an electronic shutter, there might be issues with overexposure or banding.
To harness the best of both worlds, hybrid shutters—incorporating both electronic and mechanical elements—are a strategic choice for diverse wedding environments at Charlie Patric Photography.
Choosing the Right Camera
Knowing how much shutter type impacts wedding photography can influence your camera choice. A camera with a good mechanical shutter might be a good investment for sports photography or high-speed portraits. Alternatively, a camera with an effective electronic shutter could be a better fit for event and wedding photography.
Wrap Up
In photography, shutter type plays a significant role in defining the quality of your shots and, by extension, your overall wedding photography. From snapping the first look to the farewell, understanding the advantages and drawbacks of these shutter types can help photographers deliver stellar pictures that capture the essence and emotions of your wedding day.
As an experienced wedding photographer in Frisco, Texas, my team and I at Charlie Patric Photography tailor our gear and techniques to the specific demands of your wedding day. We appreciate that it’s not only about capturing shots, but about encapsulating the emotions, laughter, and tears on this special day.