Shutter Speed and Image Sharpness

[JiH]

Hello,

I just recently purchased a M7 and I'm enjoying the differences and challenges of rangefinder photography. Having just shot a few rolls, I'd like to know what the consensus on usable shutter speed is.

I've been using ISO 100 film and the shutter speed dips to the 1/xx due to low lighting. A lot of the images aren't coming out sharp. What is the consensus on good focus and sharpness vs lowest possible shutter speed?

 

[waileong]

Can go down to 1/4 if braced.

Most important is subject motion.

If they move, it doesn't matter how still you can be.

 

[whickus]

about 1/4 second. keep your elbows in and fire after you exhale.

 

[JiH]

Thanks. ^^

 

[aizan]

http://www.imx.nl/photo/technique/technique/page40.html

kinda long and technical, but it's worth it.

 

[pvdhaar]

Rangefinders are able to shoot much lower than SLRs, though.

I have a somewhat contrary experience.. Especially modern SLRs have very well balanced shutter/mirror assemblies that don't kick when shooting. With proper holding of the SLR, I can shoot a 50 at 1/15th or so.. same as I could with the M4.

 

[kipkeston]

1/8th is no sweat. the rest requires a bit of effort =)

but at those speeds you really should be asking how large you intend to print

 

[RichardB]

I purchase Leica M's and Leica ASPH lense with the largest apertures so I can use the lenses wide open with the higest shutter speeds for max sharpness. When I have to and only when I have to, will I shoot at 1/125 or less. I use K64 so i am always looking for more light!
You can learn to hold at slow speeds but the results are never consistant and you will need to take multiple images to have a chance at one turning out acceptable. Now if you only shoot static subjects, no problem but if you shoot fluid/moving subjects where you get one shot, then I use the lenses wide open to try to stay at 1/125 or better to maximize my chances for a sharp picture.-Dick