Burst Mode

Burst mode is the ability of the camera to take multiple exposures quickly in sequence. This feature is similar to the functionality of motor drive on film cameras. Most DSLRs offer this feature in infinite succession, allowing for a high speed burst for 5-15 frames, and then a much slower burst speed after the camera’s internal cache fills up and images are written to the storage device.

Point-and-shoot cameras often also include this functionality in a more limited mode. Typically the camera will allow a set number of photos to be taken all at once, with no user control other than starting the succession. Some models even offer the ability to take multiple photos and save only the sharpest of the series (ironically, determined by file size, as a sharper image is typically larger in size).

Burst mode is very useful in situations where an event is going to occur that you wish to capture, but don’t know exactly when, such as during sporting events, or other highspeed situations with moving subjects. Burst mode can be used on a point-and-shoot to help with the shutter lag that is common on point and shoot cameras.

With DSLR cameras sometimes taking photographs in bursts gives you a better chance of taking one that is sharp, and can help in situations where you cannot stabilise the camera sufficiently.

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