Recommended settings#
ModeShutter priority
Shutter1/60–1/250 sSlower = more blur
Aperturef/8–f/11
FocusAF-C
StabilisationPanning mode
Quick start: Slow the shutter to 1/60–1/250 s and pan smoothly to blur wheels and background.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 15. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | too bright | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/8 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/11 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
Step by step#
- Plant your feet and rotate from the hips.
- Track before and after the shot.
- Start at 1/250 s and slow down as your hit rate improves.
Gear checklist#
- 100–400 mm
- Monopod
Pro tips#
- Static wheels look like a parked car — always blur the wheels.
Common mistakes#
- Stopping the pan as you press the shutter.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for motorsport panning?
Aperture: f/8–f/11 · Shutter: 1/60–1/250 s. Slow the shutter to 1/60–1/250 s and pan smoothly to blur wheels and background.
What gear do I need for motorsport panning?
100–400 mm, Monopod.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources