The Basics Of Your Camera
The world of photography is a lot more complex than simply pressing a button. Of course, you can simply shoot and point, but then what is the point of having a fancy camera? Terms such as aperture, shutter speed, and exposure are a few of the many that you will need to get to know when it comes to taking photographs. This knowledge will take your photographs from “meh” to amazing, so it is worth brushing up on it.
Let Us Start With Aperture
When you take a photo using a low aperture, more light will come into the equation. This means that a low aperture is ideal for shooting indoors or at night. Low aperture also provides a shallow depth of field, blurring the background of your photo. To take photos using a high aperture, the result will be more focused – if you have sufficient light.
Aperture Priority mode allows you to set the aperture, and the camera will then adjust the shutter speed accordingly. In most cases, setting your aperture is a quick turn of a dial, however, when in doubt, consult your manual.
Understanding ISO Settings
ISO refers to the amount of light that your lens will let in. The lower your ISO, the less light will be allowed into your lens. Lower ISOs are ideal for outside and well-lit situations, while high ISOs are effective when used in poorly lit environments. Be careful when using a high ISO, as it can result in grainy-looking pictures. In some cases, it can add to the look of the image, so if that is what you are going for then it should not be an issue.
Setting Your Shutter Speed
The shutter speed refers to how quickly the camera can process the image. A slow speed is ideal for capturing movement; however, you will need to have a steady hand or use a tripod when doing so. To quickly capture an image, for example, children running around, a higher shutter speed will be more beneficial.
Changing your shutter speed follows the same process as changing your aperture, although this can differ from camera to camera. A low shutter speed will allow more light into the camera while a faster speed can `result in a darker image. It is worth noting that if you change one setting on your camera, you will need to ensure that it does not affect the other settings. Some cameras will automatically update the other settings, however, that is not always the case.
It Is All About Finding Your Focus
When it comes to taking photographs, you need to know what you’re looking to capture and where to update your camera’s settings appropriately. At times, you will need to play around just like you play online with the settings to find the perfect fit. We cannot stress enough, do not use Auto Focus! Your camera will guess what you are trying to do. Rather, set it to achieve your desired result.