Here is a list of camera modes on most all modern cameras, along with a easy to understand explanation of What they do and when to use them.
Mode |
Shown on camera as |
Explanation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Auto |
A, or a green square | Auto chooses everything for you, including flash. Auto has gotten much better, but no matter how good it ever gets, it will never know what you want to "say" with the photo you are taking. | Don't use it. It will try to use the flash too often. If you want auto try P Mode. |
Program |
P | Almost like Auto, but the flash will not pop up automatically. Aperture and shutter are Auto. the camera still doesn't know what you want to "say" but at least the flash doesn't keep poping up when you don't want it or it wouldn't make any difference anyway. | Use only when you have to react really fast AND the next situation is unpredictable AND you will get only one chance. Not usually recommended. |
Shutter priority |
S, or Tv | This mode allows you to choose the shutter speed and the camera will choose the aperture. | Use with moving subjects you want to "stop" or show their movement. For example a race car or a waterfall. |
Aperture priority |
A | With all the things you can change editing digital photos, the Depth of Field is nearly impossible to change after a shot has been taken. if your camera has a Depth of Field preview feature use it in conjunction with A Mode. See "choosing the right Aperture" | This should be your default mode for shooting, and you should adjust the aperture for most new shots. |
Manual |
M | All manual. Not hard to use thanks to the built in light meters on all cameras now. | If you are patient and don't shoot time sensitive subjects you can use this instead of Aperture Priority. Otherwise use it in a difficult situation when other modes fail to do what you want. |
Still to come, and explanation of Landscape and portrait mode...
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