Understanding camera modes

Photography goals

Auto Mode

Allows the camera to control all the settings on your camera. You can use exposure compensation to make the image brighter or darker.

Best for

Casual snapshots, anyone that is unfamiliar with camera settings

Program Mode

Allows the camera to control shutter speed and aperture. You can change to different combinations of these settings and adjust the brightness of the image with exposure compensation.

Best for

Casual snapshots, when you want a little control but don't know which settings to choose. 

aperture priority

You set the aperture of the camera and it will automatically choose a shutter speed. You can use exposure compensation to adjust the brightness of the image.

Best for

Casual snapshots when you want to control depth of field. Manual mode works better and can be faster if you use it correctly. 

Shutter priority

You set the shutter speed of the camera and it will automatically choose a shutter speed. You can use exposure compensation to adjust the brightness of the image.

Best for

Casual snapshots when you want to control shutter speed. Manual mode works better and can be faster if you use it correctly. 

Manual mode

Gives you full control over all of the settings on your camera. I recommend that anyone learning photography start using manual mode from the start.

Best for

Everything other than casual snapshots. Landscapes, portraits, street photography, astro-photography, etc.

Which mode should you use?

Auto and priority modes take control away from you and can actually slow you down in addition to hurting the quality of your images.  For more on getting your cameras settings right...click below to grab my beginners's shooting checklist...

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