Panning and tracking are techniques used to capture moving subjects in a photograph. Panning involves following the motion of the subject with the camera while using a slow shutter speed to create a sense of motion. By keeping the subject in focus while blurring the background, panning creates a dynamic and energetic image. Tracking, on the other hand, involves predicting the movement of the subject and adjusting the camera accordingly. This technique is often used in sports photography or wildlife photography where the subject is moving at high speeds. To master panning and tracking, it is crucial to use the right settings on your camera. Start by selecting a slow shutter speed, usually around 1/30th or 1/60th of a second, to create the desired motion blur. It is also important to choose the right autofocus mode, such as continuous autofocus (AF-C), to keep the subject sharp while it is moving. Practice is key when it comes to panning and tracking. Start by photographing slow-moving subjects, such as cars or cyclists, and gradually move on to faster subjects like runners or animals in action. Experiment with different techniques and settings to find what works best for you. Remember, panning and tracking require patience and precision, but with practice, you can master these techniques and create stunning images.

Subject: A sprinter in mid-action during a track and field event. Background: A packed stadium filled with cheering spectators and the track behind the athlete. Mood: Energetic, intense, and filled with anticipation.

Camera: High-end DSLR Lens: Telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm) Aperture: f/4 Shutter Speed: 1/250th of a second ISO: 400 Other Settings: Continuous autofocus (AF-C), burst mode (to capture multiple frames rapidly), Matrix metering.

In this image, the subject is a sprinter bursting out of the blocks in a track and field event. The background features a vibrant stadium with an excited crowd, showcasing the atmosphere of the competition. The mood of the photograph is energized and intense, capturing the dynamic action of the athlete as they propel forward.

The camera used is a high-end DSLR, equipped with a telephoto lens such as a 70-200mm, allowing the photographer to capture the subject from a distance while maintaining clarity and sharpness. The aperture is set at f/4 to maintain a shallow depth of field, focusing primarily on the subject while slightly blurring the background. The shutter speed is set at 1/250th of a second to freeze the motion of the sprinter, capturing a split-second moment with clarity. An ISO of 400 is chosen to maintain a good balance between low noise and adequate exposure.

To ensure the subject remains in focus while in motion, continuous autofocus (AF-C) mode is used, allowing the camera to track the movement of the sprinter throughout the frame. Burst mode is employed to capture a series of rapid frames, increasing the chances of capturing the perfect pose or moment of the athlete's movement. Matrix metering is utilized to ensure the overall exposure of the image is well-balanced, considering both the highlights of the athlete and the shadows of the stadium.

With these settings and techniques, the photographer was able to capture a stunning photograph that showcases the excitement and intensity of a sprinter in action, surrounded by a lively crowd in a packed stadium.