Yes. Yes, it is. From the very beginning of our adventure in photography, we’ve been told to strive for tack sharp photos. And we should… in the beginning that is. But you’ll find out soon enough that rules are made to be broken, and I love finding ways to break the rules! Photography is an art form after all!

That’s why when I came across a technique that defied what I’ve always known… hold the camera tight… fast shutter speed… freeze movement… tripod, tripod! Well, I was intrigued to say the least. I couldn’t wait to try it out, but this technique requires just the right type of subject in order to be successful, so I waited.

Enter, the Scott Kelby Photo Walk, the perfect opportunity to experiment and try something new! I challenged myself to bring only one lens (my 50mm f/1.4) with me on the walk and to watch for the right photo to emerge. I meandered all over downtown. Through the Farmer’s Market. Around the mix of old and new architecture. Gathering a few detail shots here and there. And then, when I was nearing the end of the walk, I found myself standing in the middle of Freak Alley, a place covered in brightly-colored graffiti art that’s always changing with fun surprises around every corner. Then it hit me. That blur technique I squirreled away to try when the perfect subject presented itself… it’s here! All I need is a burst of color to make it work! YES!

I was giddy. You know the feeling. The one you get when you just know the right elements have come together for the shot you imagine in your mind. It took some trial and error to get the right shot, but this was it. This was the shot I always imagined creating with this blur technique…

Nikon D7000 | 50mm lens | f/16 | 1/6 sec. | ISO 100

1. Choose a shutter speed that’s slow enough to capture movement, but also fast enough to not blur the entire composition. This will take some give and take, so practice with several test shots until you get the shot you want.
2. Compose the shot through the viewfinder. You’re looking for colors and how they might blur together to create an interesting composition.
3. Once you’ve composed the shot, press the shutter button and immediately move the camera downward. This is what creates the blur.
4. Check your shot. Is it what you’d envisioned? If not, try again until you get the right shot.

Here’s another example I took while in Freak Alley. This time, I moved the camera diagonally to create an almost rain-like effect.

Nikon D7000 | 50mm lens | f/16 | 1/13 sec. | ISO 100

I know this blur technique isn’t for everyone, but it’s super fun to play and experiment with. So I encourage you to give it a try! We’d love to see what you come up with, share a link to a photo or two in the comments below.