Guide
Quick photo tip: Save your camera settings in user mode
by David Lee
Photo tip: controlling settings
24.9.2018
Translation: machine translated
There's a simple rule: don't do another photo shoot without checking the settings first. Clearly something is different since the last time.
Even if you need to take a few photos quickly: never start a new photo session without checking the settings. I'm giving you this advice because I've often failed to stick to it and regretted it. Get into the habit, just like when you fasten your seatbelt in the car.
This is just a list of things to check. I'm not explaining what the different settings mean. Otherwise, this little tip would turn into a complete introduction to photography.
Camera mode: the starting point
You need to check all the settings that the camera doesn't do automatically. So my advice is to start with the dial where you can choose the camera mode. If you can't turn the dial, press the little button in the centre to unlock it.
Fully automatic programmes and motif programmes such as "Sport" set the majority of things on their own. Depending on the camera, certain parameters such as image quality (RAW/JPEG) or exposure compensation can still be set manually. In the various cases, you'll quickly notice which settings can be changed.
The four standard modes work in the same way on all cameras. At Canon, the A mode is called Av and the S mode Tv.
- P (programmed automatic): automatic aperture and shutter speed
- A: manual aperture, automatic shutter speed
- S: manual shutter speed, automatic aperture
- M: manual aperture and shutter speed
Please note: for some cameras, changing modes causes some settings to be reset.
Parameters changed frequently
If not, check especially the things you change often.
- Autofocus
- Single shot/graze/retarder
- Exposure metering method (spot/matricial)
- Exposure compensation
- ISO settings (fixed value or automatic)
If you regularly use a fixed set of camera settings, save it as a preset. Most cameras can do this. Saving is usually done via the camera's menu and use is via a special mode (U1, U2, etc. - sometimes also M1 or C1).
By the way: also check that the battery is charged and that there is still enough space on the memory card.
David Lee
Senior Editor
David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.chMy interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.
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