What does a longer shutter speed indicate regarding exposure time?

A longer shutter speed indicates a longer exposure time, meaning that the camera’s shutter remains open for an extended period. This allows more light to reach the camera sensor, resulting in a brighter image. In practical terms, if a photographer sets a longer shutter speed, they are intentionally allowing more time for light to accumulate on the sensor, which is particularly useful in low-light conditions or when trying to capture motion blur, such as in images of moving subjects.

Understanding exposure in photography is crucial because it directly affects how an image is captured and displayed. A longer exposure can reveal details in darker areas of the scene but can also introduce blur if the subject moves or if the camera is not steadied properly during the extended time the shutter is open.