Exposure: camera modes

Many SLRs offer what is called aperture priority mode. In this setting, the photographer determines the correct aperature that is needed for the particular shot and the camera will automatically choose the shutter speed needed. Be careful, though, in darker light as the camera may choose a shutter speed that is too slow and you will end up with a blurry image. Aperature priority can be great for when you have a specific depth of field that you want.

The reverse of aperture priority is shutter speed priority. Exactly like it says, the photographer chooses the particular shutter speed needed for a specific occasion and the camera will select the needed aperture setting to go along with it. This setting can be great when you're at a sporting event and need a fast shutter speed but do not have time to worry about choosing the correct aperture.

Even on older cameras that do not have automatic focus lenses, many still have fully automatic selection of aperature and shutter speed. To do this, refer to your owner's manual. Usually, though, there will be a setting on both the shutter speed and the aperature ring that needs to be turned. Once this setting is chosen, all you have to do is compose and focus. This setting is great when you are in a hurry, the subject is moving, or you are not yet comfortable using the manual features.

Once you feel comfident using the manual controls, this is the most rewarding options. No matter how sophisticated the computer inside the camera, it still doesn't compare to our brains. Manual control obviously gives the photographer the most control possible over the exposure of the picture. Play around with your camera and try new things. In no time at all you will probably find that you no longer want the camera to "think" for you.