Photo How To

The tutorial below addresses a question we receive often; namely “What the heck is electronic first curtain shutter, and why would I use it over the mechanical or regular electronic shutter?” If you’ve wondered about that yourself take a look, because pro David Bergman clears up all the confusion in just about 10 minutes.

Bergman is a respected NY-based shooter specializing in sports and celebrity photography. He’s also a popular instructor, and he received the above query from a follower of his unique “Ask David Bergman” website—where readers submit questions and he answers them on the Adorama TV YouTube channel.

Some modern cameras feature a conventional mechanical shutter as well as an electronic shutter. And other models include a third option known as an electronic first curtain shutter. Interesting, there are photographers out there with cameras offering all three options, yet they’re unaware they exist—let alone how to use them.

If you always shoot with the mechanical shutter, and are oblivious to the other options available, this lesson will get you up to speed, thereby enabling you to capture better photos by using the best shutter choice for the specific task at hand.

Bergman discusses all three types of shutters and which ones he prefers for different assignments. He also explains the pros and cons of using your camera’s mechanical shutter as opposed to the electronic options.

The first thing you should do after watching the lesson is examine your camera and determine what shutter choices are available. Then consider which one is the best choice to use in various situations based upon Bergman’s advice.

You can read more questions and answers on common photographic topics by visiting the popular Ask David Bergman website. Then consider submitting a few questions of your own.

We also suggest you take a look at the recent tutorial we posted from another pro, explaining an easy way to make sure the photos you shoot are absolutely sharp.