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Blurred photos
There are several reasons digital images my appear blurred. Blurring can result from motion due to camera shake, use of slow shutter speeds and failure of the camera to focus correctly.
Focus
Digital cameras indicate when they are focused, either with a sound, a blinking LED or an on-screen indicator. Always confirm that the camera has locked before depressing the shutter-release button down fully.
In some circumstances, a digital camera may have trouble focusing. Auto focus modes work best when there is contrast between a subject and the background.
Slow shutter speeds
When light is low, and if you're using an automatic or semi-automatic exposure mode, slow shutter speeds will be selected by the camera. Most people can't get a blur-free hand-held shot when the shutter speed is under 1/60th of a second. Cameras with Image Stabilization will help but even IS has its limits. Increase room lighting, increase the ISO setting or use a tripod. You may have to use a combination of all three.
Camera shake
When shooting in bright light, you may move the camera without even realizing it. The movement causes an image to look blurred. Make sure you hold the camera correctly and steadily, taking extra care when framing a shot with the LCD. If you use a viewfinder, press the camera firmly against your face.
Digital cameras are more prone to camera shake when taking hand-held shots and zooming in on a subject. To help prevent blur, shutter speed should be set faster than the focal length. For example, a lens set at 200mm (35mm equivalent) requires a shutter speed of at least 1/200 seconds.
Soft images
Don't confuse a blurred image with a soft image. Soft images are common with many digital cameras. The softness rarely shows when making prints. If you edit, a slight touch of sharpening should bring out all the detail.
Remember, too, that if the subject is fast-moving, it may be blurred. This is not the fault of the camera. Freeze the action by selecting a fast shutter speed or using the Sports or equivalent digital camera mode.
