New
New
Picture taking: motion
I can capture moving subjects in my photographs.
Lesson 5 of 9
New
New
- Year 10
Picture taking: motion
I can capture moving subjects in my photographs.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Motion in photography refers to the way movement is captured or conveyed.
- European and American photographers began using motion photography to analyse and capture motion scientifically.
- Many visual cultures have long used motion to express meaning.
- Motion is no longer just about technique, it’s a form of visual storytelling.
Keywords
Motion - movement, specifically of a subject within a photograph
Blur - the effect caused by moving either the camera or the subject whilst a photo is being taken
Common misconception
Photographers can't control the way movement is depicted in their photographs.
Photographers can freeze action sharply or blur it creatively, depending on the photographer’s intent.
Encourage students to reflect on how motion can communicate mood or cultural meaning, not just technical skill.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Camera.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the words to their meanings.
Match the words to their meanings.
Q2.Which setting on your camera should you use to make sure your subject can be seen clearly and is not blurred?
Which setting on your camera should you use to make sure your subject can be seen clearly and is not blurred?
aperture controls
flash
Q3.Which of these are a way to control depth of field?
Which of these are a way to control depth of field?
a tripod
a phone camera
Q4.For shooting a street scene you should use a lower f-stop.
For shooting a street scene you should use a lower f-stop.
True
Q5.When taking a photograph, subjects at different distances from the camera appear at different ...
When taking a photograph, subjects at different distances from the camera appear at different ...
lights.
angles.
Q6.Which of the following settings can you use to control the amount of light that enters the camera lens?
Which of the following settings can you use to control the amount of light that enters the camera lens?
flash
lens
