Auto vs Manual

M2c
Many ‘Pro’ photographers say you need to shoot in manual … and as a result, I feel that too many photographers try to fit into that box, get disappointed with the results and feel that they can’t do photography.

I am not sure why this thought process is still touted so much in this modern day of photography …

Sure, way back when there was no other option, one had to shoot in manual, as it was the only available option. But I recall that when I bought my first DSLR in the 80’s, that they already had auto options then. If I remember correctly there were two trains of thought back then … some manufacturers went for auto Shut-ter speed, and others, Auto aperture.

Be that as it may, things have progressed way beyond that today, with computer technology. Cameras are very ‘smart’ these days, as they should be for what we pay for them …

So I feel we should make use of the technology that the manufacturers have put so much time, effort and money into … use the Automatic options that are availa-ble to you. It will definitely make your life as a photographer easier.

Saying that, you do need to know and understand when to use whatever Automatic option you choose.
You need to know how to shoot in manual as there are times that there is no other option than to use manual. The three main options are:

• Auto shutter speed—you choose the Aperture you want, depending on the de-sired results and the camera will select the necessary shutter speed to give you the correct exposure depending on the ISO that is set.
• Auto aperture—you choose the shutter speed and the camera will select the Aperture for the correct exposure.
• Auto ISO—depending on the Shutter speed and Aperture you select, the cam-era will use the required ISO to correctly expose your image.

Practice and play with your auto and manual options, you may be pleasantly sur-prised by the results!

Regards,
Shane