Anyone can purchase a DSLR camera and photograph a basic picture using the auto button (or “the little green box” as some photographers call it). This doesn’t, however, ensure you’ll capture the best possible picture. Experienced photographers most always agree that you need to think outside that little green box and venture into manual settings to capture high quality images.
But what if you’re just beginning to dabble in photography? Learning about the different settings on your camera can be quite intimidating. This is all the more reason to push yourself outside the (green) box! With some time and patience, even the most amateur photographer can pick up on essential techniques for using manual settings to enhance the quality of their photographs. If you can relate to wanting to improve your photography skills, here are three reasons why you shouldn’t wait to learn how to use your manual settings!
Taking Control
Manual settings give you ultimate control. Even the top-of-the-line cameras on the market today can still produce images that are off focus or have dark shadows if left in auto mode. In fact, technology can work against you, especially if you’re trying to capture an artistic shot. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the various manual settings. After you have a basic understanding of what each setting does, this is the best way to practice. Even if you take thousands of terrible photographs to get to a half decent one, there’s no cost to learning through trial and error.
Lighting
When shooting a photograph under different lighting situations, understanding manual settings can be key to capturing a great image…or none at all. Lighting has a huge impact on your images. Too much is just as harmful as too little. If you don’t know where to begin, start with lighting. Knowing how to adapt your settings at least based on lighting can be one of the best tools you possess. As a photographer, you will not always have the benefit of choosing your setting, especially when photographing an event. Being able to manipulate the manual settings of your camera can really help save the day!
Allows you to be creative
Shooting with manual settings really allows you to be the most creative when capturing an image. Don’t be afraid of manual mode, embrace it and push yourself to create something outside of the green box. You can manipulate lighting to cast a cool shadow or focus on distant object, rather than one that is in the forefront. Sure, this may result in some awful images at first, but once you learn the ropes, it’s also likely to result in far more inspired images in the future!
What’s your opinion about using the manual settings on a camera? Do you agree or disagree with our viewpoint? Share your thoughts by commenting below!
