We’ve all suffered the disappointment of capturing what we thought was a spectacular photograph, only to return home, pull it up on the computer, and discover that the image is painfully soft. Maybe the problem was camera or subject movement, incorrect camera settings, or some other mistake, and other times we can’t even identify the culprit.
Regardless of the cause, today’s eye-opening lesson from the Photo Feaver YouTube channel promises that you will capture sharp photos every time by following the advice you’ll receive in the next 10 minutes. These techniques work with whatever gear your currently own, and they’re appropriate for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
Instructor James is a British freelance photographer whose twice-weekly shooting and editing tutorials are specifically designed to help novices improve their skills. Here’s how he summarizes the video below: “I’m going to show you exactly how to take sharp photos by covering the reasons your photos are looking blurry.”
In other words, you’ll learn what makes the difference between a pro-looking image and a throwaway shot. James begins with a discussion of incorrect shutter speed settings that he says are the major reason for blurry photos. His overriding point is that the shutter speed you choose not only controls exposure, but it also determines the amount of motion blur in your images.
James then discusses his “1/160 rule” that recommends shooting no slower than 1/160 when hand-held photography is the name of the game. Surprisingly, he strongly recommends adhering to the technique, no matter what camera and lens you are using. As he says, “By following this rule you will pretty much remove all camera shake from your photos.”
One way to prevent motion blur from ever appearing in your photos is to always prioritize shutter speed over ISO for the simple reason that “you can remove high-ISO grain during post-processing, but one thing you can’t fix is a blurry photo.”
At this point James is barely getting started so be sure to watch the entire video. Then head over to the Photo Feaver YouTube Channel where there’s much more to learn.
And don’t miss the tutorial we featured earlier with a successful British pro who reveals five daily habits that will boost creativity, expand your vision, broaden your repertoire, and improve the quality of your photographs.
7 Night stay at 4* Servatur Puerto Azul Hotel Gran Canaria
for two £613pp
Fly from Luton on Sunday 30 November 2025
The hotel is:
An easy, breezy 10-minute walk gets you to the beach.
In the centre of Puerto Rico with restaurants, bars and local shops at your fingertips.
Just 35 minutes from Gran Canaria Airport.
Multiple Swimming Pools.
Adult-only area.
Accommodation
These elegant, beach-inspired rooms will totally give you that R&R that you’re craving. Whether you’re a solo traveller, with the other half, with the whole fam or with the mates, there’s a room type to suit everyone.
Pick from Classic Double, Superior Double, Large Superior Double, Classic Junior Suite, and Family Suites. All room have air conditioning and a balcony or terrace furnished with either sunbeds or a table and reclining chairs.
