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How to Adjust Canon EOS 90D Shutter Speed
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been shooting for years, you already know that Canon EOS 90D shutter speed control is one of the most important skills to master. Shutter speed determines how long your camera’s sensor is exposed to light, and it directly affects both the brightness and sharpness of your photos.
Along with aperture and ISO, shutter speed forms the exposure triangle. Getting it right means the difference between a perfectly frozen action shot and a blurry mess.
There are two main reasons shutter speed matters so much. First, it controls how bright or dark your image turns out. Second, it lets you create dramatic effects like motion blur or freeze fast-moving subjects in their tracks.
If you want to take your shooting even further, consider pairing your 90D with a remote shutter release. It’s great for long exposures and moving subjects. Check out our list of the best Canon remote release options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Canon EOS 90D Shutter Speed
Step 1. Switch to Manual Mode
Canon EOS 90D shutter speed – manual mode
Before you can change the shutter speed on your Canon EOS 90D, you need to switch out of Auto mode. In Auto, the camera makes all the decisions for you, so you won’t have any control over the Canon EOS 90D shutter speed.
To switch, grab the mode dial on top of your 90D and rotate it to “M” for Manual. Once you’re in Manual mode, you’re in the driver’s seat and can configure your camera settings however you like.
Step 2. Use the Dial or Touchscreen
Canon EOS 90D shutter speed – touch screen
Now that you’re in Manual mode, rotate the main dial near the shutter button. You’ll see the Canon EOS 90D shutter speed value change on the display as you spin it. The small markings around the dial help you land on the exact speed you want.
Here’s a nice bonus: the Canon EOS 90D has a touchscreen. You can also tap the screen to select your preferred shutter speed directly. Pretty convenient when you’re setting up a shot quickly.
The 90D gives you a wide range to work with. The slowest shutter speed goes down to 30 seconds, while the fastest tops out at 1/8000 of a second.
Step 3. Switch the AF Mode
Canon EOS 90D shutter speed – AF mode
When you’re shooting something that’s moving, shutter speed alone won’t save you. You also need your autofocus working in your favor. Switch the AF mode to AI Servo (continuous autofocus) so the camera keeps tracking your subject as it moves.
This pairing of fast shutter speed and AI Servo mode is what lets you nail sharp images of anything from kids running around to birds in flight.
Step 4. Try Bulb Mode for Long Exposures
Canon EOS 90D shutter speed – bulb mode
Want to blur moving objects on purpose? That’s where Bulb mode comes in. Set a slow Canon EOS 90D shutter speed and narrow your aperture to avoid overexposing the image.
You’ll also want to lower your ISO and consider using an ND filter to control how much light reaches the sensor.
With Bulb mode, you can either move the camera during the exposure for a creative blur effect or mount it on a tripod so only the moving subjects get blurred. You’ll find Bulb mode by rotating the main dial past the slowest shutter speed setting.
Now that you know the steps, it’s really not that complicated. Practice switching between these modes and experimenting with different speeds. That’s how you’ll learn what works best for your shooting style.
Pro tip: In low-light situations, go with a longer shutter speed to let more light hit the sensor. In bright conditions, crank the speed up to keep exposure under control. And remember, a tripod is your best friend anytime your shutter speed drops below 1/60.
