What is shutter speed in photography?

Shutter speed in photography refers specifically to the duration for which the camera's shutter remains open to allow light to hit the sensor or film, thus creating an exposure. A longer shutter speed allows more light to enter, making it suitable for low-light environments or creating motion blur effects. Conversely, a shorter shutter speed captures less light and is ideal for freezing fast-moving subjects.

This concept is fundamental to managing exposure in photography, as it directly influences the overall brightness and clarity of the captured image. Additionally, shutter speed works in conjunction with aperture and ISO settings to achieve the desired exposure and artistic effects. Understanding how shutter speed operates is essential for photographers seeking to manipulate light and motion in their images effectively.