Choosing Your Motion Mode - Dynamic Perception MX3 User Manual

7.2. Choosing Your Motion Mode

The two basic motion control modes for the MX3 motion controller are Continuous Motion and
Shoot-Move-Shoot. (Also known as SMS.) In Continuous Motion mode, the motor moves
irrespective of the camera being fired, and generally at a consistent speed. In SMS mode, the
motor only moves between exposures. These two motion control modes can result in different
aesthetics in your output video, and each are best geared to a specific type of shooting. The
following table will help to summarize the best way to choose between the two motion types
based on the parameters of your shot, or the effect you wish to achieve:
Description
Moderate Speed,
Short Exposure
Long Exposure
Very Slow Speeds
Static Subjects,
Medium Exposure
Static Subjects Sharp,
Moving Subjects
Blurred
Star Scenes
Critical Focus, Macro,
or Long Lens
Now, many photographers will use a particular mode more often than another, as a matter of
taste or artistic intent. While the table above attempts to serve as a guide to when to choose
between the modes, your workflow or shooting style may call for a specified mode that is in
contradiction with the table. Every photographer is unique, and their style is their own — you
should practice with each mode and understand which is right for you.
To select the motion type, go to the Program Control Screen, and then use the
Continuous SMS
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
All Contents licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike 3.0 License
Notes
Can add a small amount of motion blur, and
is easier to set up
SMS reduces blur during long exposures
Use SMS to achieve motion over hours or
days, much slower than motor can move
Adds nice motion blur to otherwise static
subjects
Set longest exposure time achievable
If moving with stars, cont. can help prevent
streaking, but will reduce foreground focus
on very long exposures
Prevent movement when exposing
Copyright © 2013 Dynamic Perception LLC
[Right] or [Left]
Page 24 of 45
dynamicperception.com