Well..it looks as if I need to learn a new skill.

[Markw]

I got it today. My Nikkor 70-300 f/4-5.6G lens in the mail. I love it! I must have underestimated the lnog focal distance. 300mm is a big difference from 50mm. I didnt foresee the big threat of camera shake in ambient lighting conditions. Wow. I do love the lens overall, though. And I now had to take out my N65 out of my camera bag to make room for this lens. Very nice.

Mark

 

[xposurepro]

Standard rule of thumb is the minimum shutter speed safe for hand-held shooting is 1/(focal length) .... so for 300mm you want a shutter speed faster than 1/300 if you are not using a tripod ... there are plenty of tricks to shoot in low-light situations without a tripod but this is a good rule of thumb.

 

[Markw]

The pictures usually turn out at about 1/80-1/60s, but obviously much better outside. any additional help would be much appreciated also.

Mark

 

[dxqcanada]

Get a monopod.
It will help with stability ... even if you are shooting @ 1/300s shutter speed.

 

[jlykins]

Get a monopod.
It will help with stability ... even if you are shooting @ 1/300s shutter speed.

Agreed. Bare minimum of a monopod anything slower than 1/300. However if you tuck your elbows into your sides and hold your breath as you squeeze the shutter, usually it helps.

 

[R9R Photography]

You could also play with the ISO to compensate.

Also, for indoor shots...well, any lower light shots...use what's around you. Lean on a table/wall/whatever to steady yourself.