Camera Modes: Full Auto, Program, Aperture, Shutter & Manual
Simple Photography Tips for Newbies
If you're just stepping out into the world of photography you may feel overwhelmed by all the bells and whistles featured on your camera. Don't fret! Let's simplify!
The following pertains to digicams and bridge cameras.
FULL AUTO MODE: First let's address the full auto mode. While the photographer can't make any adjustments to the settings in full auto mode, this mode performs exceptionally well in today's digital cameras.
P-MODE OR PROGRAM MODE: This mode gives the photographer a little room for setting changes. Exposure is set automatically, EV can be adjusted to brighten or darken your photos, and ISO can be adjusted when a faster shutter speed is necessary. We'll discuss EV, ISO and shutter speed below in our next mode - Aperture.
In Aperture Mode, Shutter Mode and Manual Mode all the available functions on the camera can be adjusted (ISO, metering, focus definition, white balance, EV and so forth).
A-MODE OR APERTURE PRIORITY MODE: This mode gives the photographer a lot of control over the exposure but this mode tends to be intimidating to beginner photographers. It need not be and is very basic in operation. Let's say that our camera f-stops range from 2.8 to 8.0. Adjusting the f-stops shifts shutter speeds. Simply put, the photographer sets the aperture and the camera sets the shutter speed for optimum exposure results.
When a moving subject is involved - or when the camera is handheld, a shutter speed of 1/50s is about the lowest that I can manage without blur. When action is involved, a much higher shutter speed is required to avoid blur. If the shutter speed is still too slow, it's time to bump the ISO. Unfortunately, the trade-off is more ISO typically equals more noise. Some cameras handle higher ISOs better than other cameras. With a bit of experimentation - you'll soon know the capabilities of your camera.
To adjust the darkness or lightness of a photo - use the EV function. See how simple using Aperture Mode really is? Once you get these basics down, you can experiment with White Balance, Metering and Focus options.
S-MODE OR SHUTTER PRIORITY MODE: In this mode when you choose the shutter speed the camera chooses the aperture for optimum exposure results.
M-MODE OR MANUAL MODE: This mode allows the photographer the most control over the final image as both the shutter speed and aperture are defined.
If you're new to photography, I hope that the above helps to simplify the basic functions and settings.
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