Demonstration of Mirror Slap at Relatively High Shutter Speeds.

10 Images, representing 5 pairs of shutter speeds, 2 samples each, shot within a several minute period. Nikon D70, Nikkor AFS 300 F/4 TC14E II at 410mm.

Exposure: ISO 400, F/8 and shutter speed as indicated.

Tripod: Gitzo 1228 with Markings M10 Ballhead and TB20 base plate. Lower two sections collaped, leaving the two upper sections extended (including the base section).

These images were shot at a constant aperture F/8, which I believe to be the optimum aperture for this glass. These images were part of an exposure bracket to determine optimum exposure for this phase of the moon. The moon was favorably placed at 49 degrees altitude.

While most people believe that mirror slap starts at 1/60s, these images demonstrate that it can degrade images at speeds as high as 1/160 and I believe I have seen the effects at 1/250. I try to shoot the moon at 1/500 or faster when conditions permit. That was not possible here without boosting the ISO to unacceptable levels and/or opening the lens to wide open.