FREEZING THE ACTION AT LOW ISO SETTINGS

If it was possible to end up with razor-sharp, action-stopping images by using ISO 100, you would probably stay away from higher ISOs due to the increased amount of noise that is visable in images shot at high ISO settings. It is however possible to freeze most action subjects with as little as ISO 100, resulting in an image that is flawless.

Try using the following exposure calculations at ISO 100, 200 and 400. These settings are based on sunny lighting conditions with a front-lit or side-lit subject, assuming identical light but changing the aperture and shutter speed.

ISO 100

f/4 for 1/1600 sec.

f/5.6 for 1/800 sec.

f/8 for 1/400 sec.

f/11 for 1/200 sec.

f/16 for 1/100 sec.

ISO 200

f/4 for 1/3200 sec

f/5.6 for 1/1600 sec.

f/8 for 1/800 sec.

f/11 for 1/400 sec.

f/16 for 1/200 sec.

ISO 400

f/4 for 1/6400 sec.

f/5.6 for 1/3200 sec.

f/8.0 for 1/1600 sec.

f/11 for 1/800 sec.

f/16 for 1/400 sec.

As you can see, there are plenty of action-stopping speeds available to you at ISO 100, 200 and 400. At settings beyond ISO 400, grain is a problem. Experiment using these settings as a base and adjust to meet the conditions for your particular action shoot.

Source: Adorama