Zoom Burst Effect

The zoom burst effect creates explosive streaks radiating from the centre of the frame – made by zooming the lens during a slow exposure. The key is a slow-ish shutter and a smooth zoom while the shutter is open. Here’s how to create a zoom burst effect.

Zoom burst photography effects are one of the most fun and frankly unpredictable photography techniques you may have never tried.

They are ridiculously simple to set up and can be tried with anything – literally!

What is a Zoom Burst Effect?

Here are some examples of zoom bursts…

They are a result of light waves being dragged through different focal lengths, during one single exposure, to create this warp-speed effect.

While you can try out zoom bursts on any type of subject, you’ll find that scenes with bright lights (discos, street lights, fairy lights, neons, car headlights etc) are most effective.

While you can use cameras with digital zoom, you will find that optical zoom lenses are quicker to react during an exposure.

How to Take a Zoom Burst Photo

Switch your camera in to Shutter Priority (S/Tv) or Manual (M) mode and pop it on a tripod. While it is possible to shoot zoom bursts handheld, to keep the lines of light smooth a tripod will help.

Change your shutter speed to around 1/30th, you may need to adjust this based on your results. Zoom as close in as possible to your subject. Set your aperture and ISO accordingly to make a balanced exposure.

Focus on your subject with a single spot focus point.

Use Manual Focus when Zooming

Once you start the zoom most of the shot will be blurred, so trying to keep some part sharp will give the image some interest. You can alternatively use manual focus (MF) otherwise.

You’ll need to multi-task as when you press the shutter button (you could also use a remote trigger too) you need to rotate the barrel of the zoom lens and zoom out.

It’s important to react fast and twist that lens to get a noticeable effect. You can zoom out a little or a lot, that’s your decision.

You could even turn everything on its head and zoom in to your subject during the exposure.

Zoom Burst Photography Tutorial

How to Create Zoom Burst Effect in Photoshop

Zoom Burst Photography: Final Words

Give it a go – zoom bursts are way of breaking the boredom of shooting the same types of shots over and over.

Because each image relies on your manual movement of the lens, you’ll get a unique effect each time. Singular subjects look the best in the centre of zoom burst and instantly draw attention in.

For more, read our guide to long exposure photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the zoom burst effect?

A creative effect where streaks radiate out from the centre of the frame, created by zooming the lens in or out during a relatively slow exposure. It adds energy, motion and drama.

How do I create a zoom burst?

Use a zoom lens and a slow-ish shutter speed (around 1/4 to 1s), then smoothly zoom in or out while the shutter is open. A tripod helps keep the centre steady; practise the smooth zoom timing.

What settings work for a zoom burst?

A slow-ish shutter (1/4s to a second or so, depending on light), a low ISO and narrower aperture to allow it, and a tripod. In bright light, an ND filter helps you get a slow enough shutter.

What subjects suit the zoom burst effect?

Subjects with lights, colour or strong central interest, fairgrounds, city lights, autumn trees, flowers. A clear central subject anchors the explosion of streaks around it.

Why is my zoom burst blurry or messy?

Either the zoom was not smooth, jerky zooming gives messy streaks, or the centre moved. Practise a steady, even zoom, use a tripod, and keep your subject centred for clean radiating streaks.