the beginner's guide to photography
DESCRIPTION
Are you interested in learning more about photography or perhaps even becoming a photographer but don't know where to start? Then this is the book for you!TRANSCRIPT
The Beginner’s
Guide to
Photography
Dami Anandbazar
The Beginner’s
Guide to
Photography
Dami Anandbazar
2
The Beginner’s Guide to
Photography
2
The Beginner’s Guide to
Photography
3
The camera used in the examples in this guidebook is a
Canon 5D Mark II. Most Canon cameras will have
similar designs. The instructions may differ with other
brands and models.
3
The camera used in the examples in this guidebook is a
Canon 5D Mark II. Most Canon cameras will have
similar designs. The instructions may differ with other
brands and models.
4
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Aperture
3. Shutter Speed
4. ISO
5. Aperture Priority
6. Shutter Priority
6
10
12
16
19
26
4
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Aperture
3. Shutter Speed
4. ISO
5. Aperture Priority
6. Shutter Priority
6
10
12
16
19
26
5
7. Program Mode
8. Metering Modes
9. AF Points
10. Photo Composition
11. Rules of Thumb
12. Tips for Beginners
13. Index
14. Acknowledgements
31
34
38
43
48
50
53
55
5
7. Program Mode
8. Metering Modes
9. AF Points
10. Photo Composition
11. Rules of Thumb
12. Tips for Beginners
13. Index
14. Acknowledgements
31
34
38
43
48
50
53
55
6
Introduction Simply having an expensive camera
does not necessarily make you a
good photographer. The process of
learning how to take creative
pictures is very much a process of
trial and error, and this guide will
ease you through that process.
Essentially, there are 3 major pillars
of photography; Aperture, which
dictates the size of the opening in
the lens, Shutter Speed, which
changes the speed of the camera’s
shutter, and ISO, which controls the
sensitivity of the camera to light.
Those 3 settings determine the
6
Introduction Simply having an expensive camera
does not necessarily make you a
good photographer. The process of
learning how to take creative
pictures is very much a process of
trial and error, and this guide will
ease you through that process.
Essentially, there are 3 major pillars
of photography; Aperture, which
dictates the size of the opening in
the lens, Shutter Speed, which
changes the speed of the camera’s
shutter, and ISO, which controls the
sensitivity of the camera to light.
Those 3 settings determine the
7
exposure of the photo, which
controls how dark or light the photo
will appear1. Along with the three
pillars of photography, there are
several things to keep at the back of
your mind as you familiarize
yourself with the concepts of
photography. The Rule of Thirds
helps you to take a more
aesthetically pleasing photo,
dictating how the image should be
composed by dividing it into 9 equal
rectangles.1
Focus is very important in
photography. Before taking a
picture, you should always have an
idea of which parts of your photo
you want to focus on, and which
parts will be blurry. Know whether
or not your background will be in
focus, or if it will be blurry, how
blurry will it be? Nailing your focus
will make your photo look much
better, and this guidebook will show 1Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/a-beginners-guide-to-photography/ (accessed 06 Dec, 2015).
7
exposure of the photo, which
controls how dark or light the photo
will appear1. Along with the three
pillars of photography, there are
several things to keep at the back of
your mind as you familiarize
yourself with the concepts of
photography. The Rule of Thirds
helps you to take a more
aesthetically pleasing photo,
dictating how the image should be
composed by dividing it into 9 equal
rectangles.1
Focus is very important in
photography. Before taking a
picture, you should always have an
idea of which parts of your photo
you want to focus on, and which
parts will be blurry. Know whether
or not your background will be in
focus, or if it will be blurry, how
blurry will it be? Nailing your focus
will make your photo look much
better, and this guidebook will show 1Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/a-beginners-guide-to-photography/ (accessed 06 Dec, 2015).
8
Lighting is one of the most vital
aspects of photography. Always be
aware of your lighting and
surroundings, as you must adjust
your camera’s settings accordingly.
Some useful tips for lighting include;
avoid bright light behind your
subject, look out for dark shadows,
and beware of things that glare in
the light. In essence, photography is
lighting, as photography is the art of
capturing light reflected from
objects into the camera’s lenses.
The success of a photo will usually
come down to photo composition,
which is what you include and leave
out of the shot, and how you
2Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/a-beginners-guide-to-photography/ (accessed 06 Dec, 2015).
8
Lighting is one of the most vital
aspects of photography. Always be
aware of your lighting and
surroundings, as you must adjust
your camera’s settings accordingly.
Some useful tips for lighting include;
avoid bright light behind your
subject, look out for dark shadows,
and beware of things that glare in
the light. In essence, photography is
lighting, as photography is the art of
capturing light reflected from
objects into the camera’s lenses.
The success of a photo will usually
come down to photo composition,
which is what you include and leave
out of the shot, and how you
2Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/a-beginners-guide-to-photography/ (accessed 06 Dec, 2015).
9
It will also be helpful to keep in
mind the color within your photos.
If the main subject of focus is the
same color as the background, it
can make it difficult for viewers to
see the subject, which can be
All the pictures in this guidebook are the
works of the author, with the exception of
the diagram on page 10.
9
It will also be helpful to keep in
mind the color within your photos.
If the main subject of focus is the
same color as the background, it
can make it difficult for viewers to
see the subject, which can be
All the pictures in this guidebook are the
works of the author, with the exception of
the diagram on page 10.
10
Aperture Simply put, aperture is the size of
the opening in the lens3. When you
press on the shutter release button
to take a picture, a hole opens in
the camera’s lens which allows light
to enter, giving the image sensor a
look at the scene which you are
about to shoot. The aperture setting
controls the size of that hole. The
larger the hole, the more light that
enters; the smaller the hole, the
less light entering the lens. Aperture
is measured in f-stops. The diagram
above shows how increasing the f-
stop number affects the size of the
hole.3
3Darren Rose, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/aperture/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
10
Aperture Simply put, aperture is the size of
the opening in the lens3. When you
press on the shutter release button
to take a picture, a hole opens in
the camera’s lens which allows light
to enter, giving the image sensor a
look at the scene which you are
about to shoot. The aperture setting
controls the size of that hole. The
larger the hole, the more light that
enters; the smaller the hole, the
less light entering the lens. Aperture
is measured in f-stops. The diagram
above shows how increasing the f-
stop number affects the size of the
hole.3
3Darren Rose, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/aperture/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
11
Switching from one f-stop to the
next doubles or halves the size of
the aperture. The smaller the
number of the f-stop, the bigger
the aperture and vice versa4. When
you change between apertures, you
will see a change in depth of field of
the image. Depth of Field, or DOF, is
the term for how much of your
photo will be in focus. Larger depth
of field means most of the shot will
be in focus, whereas shallow depth
of field means only a small part of
the shot will be in focus. Larger
apertures result in a shallower
depth of field; smaller apertures
result in a larger depth of field.4
4Darren Rose, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/aperture/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
11
Switching from one f-stop to the
next doubles or halves the size of
the aperture. The smaller the
number of the f-stop, the bigger
the aperture and vice versa4. When
you change between apertures, you
will see a change in depth of field of
the image. Depth of Field, or DOF, is
the term for how much of your
photo will be in focus. Larger depth
of field means most of the shot will
be in focus, whereas shallow depth
of field means only a small part of
the shot will be in focus. Larger
apertures result in a shallower
depth of field; smaller apertures
result in a larger depth of field.4
4Darren Rose, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/aperture/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
12
Shutter Speed Shutter speed is the amount of time
that the shutter is open5. One of
the three settings which control the
exposure of the photo, shutter
speed is measured in seconds,
although in most cases it is
measured in fractions of seconds.
The bigger the denominator, the
faster the shutter speed. Just like
aperture, shutter speeds usually
doubles or halves with each setting.
So keep in mind, increasing the
shutter speed by 1 stop and
decreasing the aperture by 1 stop
will have a similar effect on
exposure. Faster shutter speeds
means less light will be allowed to
enter the lens, so in order to
compensate for less light, you
should increase the aperture or ISO
sensitivity.5
5Darren Rowse, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/shutter-speed/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
12
Shutter Speed Shutter speed is the amount of time
that the shutter is open5. One of
the three settings which control the
exposure of the photo, shutter
speed is measured in seconds,
although in most cases it is
measured in fractions of seconds.
The bigger the denominator, the
faster the shutter speed. Just like
aperture, shutter speeds usually
doubles or halves with each setting.
So keep in mind, increasing the
shutter speed by 1 stop and
decreasing the aperture by 1 stop
will have a similar effect on
exposure. Faster shutter speeds
means less light will be allowed to
enter the lens, so in order to
compensate for less light, you
should increase the aperture or ISO
sensitivity.5
5Darren Rowse, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/shutter-speed/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
13
With slower shutter speeds, it
allows you to adjust the aperture
and ISO sensitivity as you wish.
However, slow shutter speeds can
result in camera shake, where an
image appears blurry and
unfocused due to movement. A
common rule of thumb is to select a
shutter speed with a denominator
larger than the focal length of the
lens to take a photo at the slowest
shutter speed without camera
6Darren Rowse, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/shutter-speed/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
13
With slower shutter speeds, it
allows you to adjust the aperture
and ISO sensitivity as you wish.
However, slow shutter speeds can
result in camera shake, where an
image appears blurry and
unfocused due to movement. A
common rule of thumb is to select a
shutter speed with a denominator
larger than the focal length of the
lens to take a photo at the slowest
shutter speed without camera
6Darren Rowse, Digital Photography School, http://digital-photography-school.com/shutter-speed/ (accessed 15 Nov, 2015).
14
In low light situations, higher
shutter speeds are needed to
compensate for the lack of light,
whereas faster shutter speeds
should be used when there is a
sufficient and controlled amount of
lighting. You might need a tripod
with shutter speeds lower than
around 1/60, but it usually depends
on how steady the hands of the
photographer are. Shutter speed
can be used in many creative ways,
such as freezing or blurring motion.
To freeze motion faster shutter
speeds are required while slower
shutter speeds will blur the motion.
14
In low light situations, higher
shutter speeds are needed to
compensate for the lack of light,
whereas faster shutter speeds
should be used when there is a
sufficient and controlled amount of
lighting. You might need a tripod
with shutter speeds lower than
around 1/60, but it usually depends
on how steady the hands of the
photographer are. Shutter speed
can be used in many creative ways,
such as freezing or blurring motion.
To freeze motion faster shutter
speeds are required while slower
shutter speeds will blur the motion.
15
15
16
ISO ISO is the level of sensitivity of your
camera to light7. ISO is measured in
numbers usually from 100 to
around 6400. The lower the ISO
number, the less sensitivity, and the
higher the ISO number, the more
sensitivity. Every camera has what is
called a base ISO, the term for the
lowest ISO setting the camera has to
offer, which produces detailed
images with no noise. Bumping up
the ISO brings grainy visual
distortion into the photograph,
making it look slightly pixelated.7
7Nasim Mansurov, Photography Life, https://photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography, (accessed 13 Nov, 2015).
16
ISO ISO is the level of sensitivity of your
camera to light7. ISO is measured in
numbers usually from 100 to
around 6400. The lower the ISO
number, the less sensitivity, and the
higher the ISO number, the more
sensitivity. Every camera has what is
called a base ISO, the term for the
lowest ISO setting the camera has to
offer, which produces detailed
images with no noise. Bumping up
the ISO brings grainy visual
distortion into the photograph,
making it look slightly pixelated.7
7Nasim Mansurov, Photography Life, https://photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography, (accessed 13 Nov, 2015).
17
ISO numbers start from around 100-
200 (Base ISO), and usually doubles
or halves each time you switch
between settings just like aperture
and shutter speed. Being twice as
sensitive to light means the camera
requires half the time it takes to
take a photo. To change the ISO,
press the button shown on the
image to the right and switch the
setting using the front dial. The
small LCD panel below the ISO
button will display which setting you
have chosen. You will also be able
to see the setting you have chosen
by looking through the viewfinder.8
8Nasim Mansurov, Photography Life, https://photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography, (accessed 13 Nov, 2015).
17
ISO numbers start from around 100-
200 (Base ISO), and usually doubles
or halves each time you switch
between settings just like aperture
and shutter speed. Being twice as
sensitive to light means the camera
requires half the time it takes to
take a photo. To change the ISO,
press the button shown on the
image to the right and switch the
setting using the front dial. The
small LCD panel below the ISO
button will display which setting you
have chosen. You will also be able
to see the setting you have chosen
by looking through the viewfinder.8
8Nasim Mansurov, Photography Life, https://photographylife.com/what-is-iso-in-photography, (accessed 13 Nov, 2015).
18
When taking photographs in low
light situations, bump up the ISO
just enough so that there is enough
light entering but no noise in the
photo. When the lighting is
controlled, use the lowest possible
ISO setting and adjust the aperture
and shutter priority accordingly.
Also, if you are using a tripod, you
can use the slowest shutter speed
and the lowest ISO for the highest
quality photo. One very important
thing to keep at the back of your
mind is to never trust the display on
your camera. Always zoom in a bit
to look for unwanted noise, as it
usually appears very different on a
computer.
18
When taking photographs in low
light situations, bump up the ISO
just enough so that there is enough
light entering but no noise in the
photo. When the lighting is
controlled, use the lowest possible
ISO setting and adjust the aperture
and shutter priority accordingly.
Also, if you are using a tripod, you
can use the slowest shutter speed
and the lowest ISO for the highest
quality photo. One very important
thing to keep at the back of your
mind is to never trust the display on
your camera. Always zoom in a bit
to look for unwanted noise, as it
usually appears very different on a
computer.
19
Aperture Priority This is a semi-automatic mode
which allows you to set the
aperture manually and the camera
automatically sets the shutter
speed9. When you widen the
aperture, you allow more light to
enter the lens which in turn allows
the camera to speed up the shutter
speed for the optimal exposure.
Changing the aperture setting
affects the exposure of the photo,
so ISO and shutter speed should
also be considered. To use aperture
priority mode, switch the dial to “A”
or “Av”, and use the front dial to
change the aperture setting.9
9Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
19
Aperture Priority This is a semi-automatic mode
which allows you to set the
aperture manually and the camera
automatically sets the shutter
speed9. When you widen the
aperture, you allow more light to
enter the lens which in turn allows
the camera to speed up the shutter
speed for the optimal exposure.
Changing the aperture setting
affects the exposure of the photo,
so ISO and shutter speed should
also be considered. To use aperture
priority mode, switch the dial to “A”
or “Av”, and use the front dial to
change the aperture setting.9
9Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
20
There are many situations in which
using aperture priority can be very
useful.
If you are trying to put all the
emphasis on the subject at the
expense of the background detail
To put everything in the frame in
focus.
In controlled lighting situations with
minimal movement, where shutter
speed is not important.
However there are some situation
where you should not use this
mode as it could ruin your shot.
Poor light or dark room
Shooting in low light can cause problems
with exposure and camera shake. Using
aperture priority mode only solves the
exposure problem, and as a result you get
camera shake. To a certain degree, you
can fix the exposure but you cannot fix
camera shake in photos. However you can
fix
20
There are many situations in which
using aperture priority can be very
useful.
If you are trying to put all the
emphasis on the subject at the
expense of the background detail
To put everything in the frame in
focus.
In controlled lighting situations with
minimal movement, where shutter
speed is not important.
However there are some situation
where you should not use this
mode as it could ruin your shot.
Poor light or dark room
Shooting in low light can cause problems
with exposure and camera shake. Using
aperture priority mode only solves the
exposure problem, and as a result you get
camera shake. To a certain degree, you
can fix the exposure but you cannot fix
camera shake in photos. However you can
fix
21
both problems by using aperture priority
mode and a tripod, which will give you
sharp and clear photos with no camera
shake.
Night Landscape
Aperture priority mode is useful for
landscape shots during the day, but it can
be difficult at night due to how
unpredictable the lighting can be. For
these situations shutter priority or
program mode is the better option as you
can change the shutter speed as you wish.
21
both problems by using aperture priority
mode and a tripod, which will give you
sharp and clear photos with no camera
shake.
Night Landscape
Aperture priority mode is useful for
landscape shots during the day, but it can
be difficult at night due to how
unpredictable the lighting can be. For
these situations shutter priority or
program mode is the better option as you
can change the shutter speed as you wish.
22
Aperture tips
Very Low Light
You may be tempted to use your camera’s
built-in flash when you’re shooting in low
light situations, but don’t do it! Using the
flash can produce very low quality photos,
often introducing washed out faces, harsh
black shadows, and red-eye. Therefore it
is a much better option to use a larger
aperture and maybe a higher ISO
depending on how dark it is.10
10Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
22
Aperture tips
Very Low Light
You may be tempted to use your camera’s
built-in flash when you’re shooting in low
light situations, but don’t do it! Using the
flash can produce very low quality photos,
often introducing washed out faces, harsh
black shadows, and red-eye. Therefore it
is a much better option to use a larger
aperture and maybe a higher ISO
depending on how dark it is.10
10Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
23
Macro Images
When shooting very small objects, the
subject can fall out of focus very easily
even with a smaller aperture. To capture
the most detail, use the smallest aperture
available, which means you will need a
slower shutter speed to compensate for
the lack of light, and quite possibly a
tripod as well.11
Capturing Motion Blur in Daytime
To capture motion blur during the day,
use a smaller aperture. Using a larger
aperture will produce overexposed
photos, since you need slower shutter
speeds to capture motion blur. Using a
tripod along with a small aperture will
give you that very slight motion blur.11
11Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov,
2015).
23
Macro Images
When shooting very small objects, the
subject can fall out of focus very easily
even with a smaller aperture. To capture
the most detail, use the smallest aperture
available, which means you will need a
slower shutter speed to compensate for
the lack of light, and quite possibly a
tripod as well.11
Capturing Motion Blur in Daytime
To capture motion blur during the day,
use a smaller aperture. Using a larger
aperture will produce overexposed
photos, since you need slower shutter
speeds to capture motion blur. Using a
tripod along with a small aperture will
give you that very slight motion blur.11
11Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov,
2015).
24
Busy Backgrounds
Busy backgrounds can distract the viewer
from the main subject, which makes the
photo chaotic, confusing the viewer. For
this, use a larger aperture to give the
photo a shallow depth of field, which will
put the unneeded background out of
focus. Set the autofocus mode to One
shot, as it is most suitable for subjects
which are not moving.
24
Busy Backgrounds
Busy backgrounds can distract the viewer
from the main subject, which makes the
photo chaotic, confusing the viewer. For
this, use a larger aperture to give the
photo a shallow depth of field, which will
put the unneeded background out of
focus. Set the autofocus mode to One
shot, as it is most suitable for subjects
which are not moving.
25
Contextual Background
If the background is part of the story
you’re trying to tell through your photo,
use a smaller aperture to put the
background into focus. It’s all about
whether the background is too distracting
or if it is an important part of the photo.12
Landscapes
For most landscape photos, you want the
entire frame in focus, so the viewer sees it
as if they were actually there. Smaller
apertures give a larger DOF, focusing on
everything in the frame.12
12Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
25
Contextual Background
If the background is part of the story
you’re trying to tell through your photo,
use a smaller aperture to put the
background into focus. It’s all about
whether the background is too distracting
or if it is an important part of the photo.12
Landscapes
For most landscape photos, you want the
entire frame in focus, so the viewer sees it
as if they were actually there. Smaller
apertures give a larger DOF, focusing on
everything in the frame.12
12Josh, Expert Photography, http://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/, (accessed 14 Nov, 2015).
26
Shutter Priority Shutter priority mode allows you to
manually set the shutter speed
while the camera automatically
sets the aperture setting13. To use
this mode, switch the dial to “S” or
“Tv”. The front dial changes shutter
speed.
There are different situations where
using shutter priority mode can be
very useful.
To stop motion, you need to set the
shutter speed faster than the
object.
To blur movement, set the shutter
speed slower than the object.
Under unpredictable lighting
conditions.13
13Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
26
Shutter Priority Shutter priority mode allows you to
manually set the shutter speed
while the camera automatically
sets the aperture setting13. To use
this mode, switch the dial to “S” or
“Tv”. The front dial changes shutter
speed.
There are different situations where
using shutter priority mode can be
very useful.
To stop motion, you need to set the
shutter speed faster than the
object.
To blur movement, set the shutter
speed slower than the object.
Under unpredictable lighting
conditions.13
13Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
27
The best shutter speeds for general
purpose are usually between 1/80
to 1/125, with 1/80 being the
slowest speed to get a quality
photo with no camera shake.
However, if you have a tripod, you
can set your shutter speed to
virtually anything, as it gets rid of
camera shake.
Shutter speed tips
Shooting Stars
Using a tripod, you can literally set you
shutter speed to several minutes or even
hours using bulb mode, which allows you
to take pictures for as long as you press
the shutter button. Including stars and
still objects in the photo will show stars
moving across the sky while the static
objects stay still.14
14Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
27
The best shutter speeds for general
purpose are usually between 1/80
to 1/125, with 1/80 being the
slowest speed to get a quality
photo with no camera shake.
However, if you have a tripod, you
can set your shutter speed to
virtually anything, as it gets rid of
camera shake.
Shutter speed tips
Shooting Stars
Using a tripod, you can literally set you
shutter speed to several minutes or even
hours using bulb mode, which allows you
to take pictures for as long as you press
the shutter button. Including stars and
still objects in the photo will show stars
moving across the sky while the static
objects stay still.14
14Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
28
Shooting water
Shooting water at high shutter speeds
makes the water seem frozen. This will
require a shutter speed of 1/500 or faster.
Shooting birds in flight
To freeze the movement of birds while
they’re flying, use a shutter speed of just
around 1/2000.
Shooting moving vehicles
Use a shutter speed of around 1/1000 to
freeze the motion of moving vehicles such
as cars and motorcycles.
Blurring walking people
To blur the movement of people walking,
use a shutter speed of 1/4 or so.15
15Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
28
Shooting water
Shooting water at high shutter speeds
makes the water seem frozen. This will
require a shutter speed of 1/500 or faster.
Shooting birds in flight
To freeze the movement of birds while
they’re flying, use a shutter speed of just
around 1/2000.
Shooting moving vehicles
Use a shutter speed of around 1/1000 to
freeze the motion of moving vehicles such
as cars and motorcycles.
Blurring walking people
To blur the movement of people walking,
use a shutter speed of 1/4 or so.15
15Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
29
Panning
This technique is where you move the
camera from one side to the other
following a moving object which results in
a sharp subject and blurred background.
Set the ISO to around 100, to get the best
quality photo. This works best in low-light
environments, as bright environments
cause overexposed photos. This will need
a shutter speed of around 1/30 to 1/60.
Use the Al Servo autofocus mode, as it is
designed for the purpose of tracking
moving subjects.15
Light Trails
To capture the light trails of cars as they
pass by the frame, use a shutter speed of
around 10 seconds to a couple minutes
depending on traffic. Use an aperture of
about f/8 and set your ISO at 200. To
ensure that there is no camera shake
when you take the picture, use a tripod. If
the photo is underexposed, bump up the
ISO or increase the shutter speed. Try to
use manual focus rather than autofocus,
as autofocus may struggle with the lack of
contrast.15
15Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
29
Panning
This technique is where you move the
camera from one side to the other
following a moving object which results in
a sharp subject and blurred background.
Set the ISO to around 100, to get the best
quality photo. This works best in low-light
environments, as bright environments
cause overexposed photos. This will need
a shutter speed of around 1/30 to 1/60.
Use the Al Servo autofocus mode, as it is
designed for the purpose of tracking
moving subjects.15
Light Trails
To capture the light trails of cars as they
pass by the frame, use a shutter speed of
around 10 seconds to a couple minutes
depending on traffic. Use an aperture of
about f/8 and set your ISO at 200. To
ensure that there is no camera shake
when you take the picture, use a tripod. If
the photo is underexposed, bump up the
ISO or increase the shutter speed. Try to
use manual focus rather than autofocus,
as autofocus may struggle with the lack of
contrast.15
15Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
30
Milky water effect
To give the waterfall a silky look, set the
shutter speed to around 1-3 seconds, or
to higher speeds to make it seem
frozen.16
Mastering shutter speed and
photography in general always
requires lots of practice, trial, and
error so stay patient. To practice
setting the right shutter speed, try
taking photos of moving cars.16
16Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
30
Milky water effect
To give the waterfall a silky look, set the
shutter speed to around 1-3 seconds, or
to higher speeds to make it seem
frozen.16
Mastering shutter speed and
photography in general always
requires lots of practice, trial, and
error so stay patient. To practice
setting the right shutter speed, try
taking photos of moving cars.16
16Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
31
Program Mode Program mode is a semi-automatic
mode which sets the aperture and
shutter speed automatically for
what it deems most appropriate,
but allows you to change them as
you wish to improve the quality of
the photos17. On all dSLR cameras,
program mode will be represented
by a “P” on the main dial.
The situations to use program mode
include:
When autofocus isn’t choosing the
subject you want.
When auto-mode is jacking up the
ISO more than necessary.
When the subject is either too light
or dark.
Generally when your photos aren’t
coming out the way you want it.17
17Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-program-mode/, (accessed 20 Nov,
2015).
31
Program Mode Program mode is a semi-automatic
mode which sets the aperture and
shutter speed automatically for
what it deems most appropriate,
but allows you to change them as
you wish to improve the quality of
the photos17. On all dSLR cameras,
program mode will be represented
by a “P” on the main dial.
The situations to use program mode
include:
When autofocus isn’t choosing the
subject you want.
When auto-mode is jacking up the
ISO more than necessary.
When the subject is either too light
or dark.
Generally when your photos aren’t
coming out the way you want it.17
17Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-program-mode/, (accessed 20 Nov,
2015).
32
When you use auto mode to take
photos, most cameras jack up the
ISO when you shoot in low light. The
reason for this is because most
cameras set the ISO sensitivity high
enough that the shutter speed does
not need to be dropped too low, as
it could cause motion blur. However,
increasing the ISO to much can
introduce unwanted noise to the
images. You can solve this by using a
tripod and program mode, allowing
you to manually set the ISO and
lower the shutter speed. Remember
to always use the lowest ISO setting
when you use a tripod, unless you
want special effects.
To use program mode, switch the
main dial to “P”. After that, look
through your viewfinder as if you’re
about to take a picture and gently
press on the shutter release
button.18 You should hear
18Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
32
When you use auto mode to take
photos, most cameras jack up the
ISO when you shoot in low light. The
reason for this is because most
cameras set the ISO sensitivity high
enough that the shutter speed does
not need to be dropped too low, as
it could cause motion blur. However,
increasing the ISO to much can
introduce unwanted noise to the
images. You can solve this by using a
tripod and program mode, allowing
you to manually set the ISO and
lower the shutter speed. Remember
to always use the lowest ISO setting
when you use a tripod, unless you
want special effects.
To use program mode, switch the
main dial to “P”. After that, look
through your viewfinder as if you’re
about to take a picture and gently
press on the shutter release
button.18 You should hear
18Lori Grunin, CNET, http://www.cnet.com/how-to/dslr-tips-for-beginners-how-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/ (accessed 18
Nov, 2015).
33
a soft click, indicating the camera
has focused on an object and has
set the aperture and shutter speed
automatically. The chosen aperture
and shutter speed should appear on
the LCD panel. To switch between
different aperture and shutter
speed combinations, use the front
dial. Spinning the front dial to the
left will lower the shutter speed,
introducing motion blur, whereas
spinning it to the right will increase
the aperture which results in a
more shallow depth of field. Keep in
mind, the number on the right is
the aperture and the number on
the left in the LCD panel is the
shutter speed.
33
a soft click, indicating the camera
has focused on an object and has
set the aperture and shutter speed
automatically. The chosen aperture
and shutter speed should appear on
the LCD panel. To switch between
different aperture and shutter
speed combinations, use the front
dial. Spinning the front dial to the
left will lower the shutter speed,
introducing motion blur, whereas
spinning it to the right will increase
the aperture which results in a
more shallow depth of field. Keep in
mind, the number on the right is
the aperture and the number on
the left in the LCD panel is the
shutter speed.
34
Metering Modes Metering is the term for how your
camera chooses the optimal shutter
speed and aperture, based upon
the amount of light that enters and
the sensitivity of the sensor1. When
the scene you shooting is unevenly
lit, cameras can struggle to
determine the correct exposure of
the photo. Most cameras take in to
account the light levels of the entire
frame by default, to determine an
exposure that produces a photo
with balanced bright and dark
areas. In situations where the
default does not work, other
options are available.19
19Nasim Mansurov, PhotographyLife, https://photographylife.com/understanding-metering-modes, (accessed 5 Dec, 2015).
34
Metering Modes Metering is the term for how your
camera chooses the optimal shutter
speed and aperture, based upon
the amount of light that enters and
the sensitivity of the sensor1. When
the scene you shooting is unevenly
lit, cameras can struggle to
determine the correct exposure of
the photo. Most cameras take in to
account the light levels of the entire
frame by default, to determine an
exposure that produces a photo
with balanced bright and dark
areas. In situations where the
default does not work, other
options are available.19
19Nasim Mansurov, PhotographyLife, https://photographylife.com/understanding-metering-modes, (accessed 5 Dec, 2015).
35
The 3 most common metering
modes which most dSLR cameras
should have are; Overall/Evaluative
Metering, Center-Weighted
Metering, and Spot Metering.
Different manufacturers and
models will have differing ways to
change the metering mode, so
make sure to read the user manual
of your camera. To change the
metering mode on a Canon 5D
Mark II, press the button to the
upper left of the LCD panel and use
the front dial to switch between
20Nasim Mansurov, PhotographyLife, https://photographylife.com/
understanding-metering-modes, (accessed 5 Dec, 2015).
35
The 3 most common metering
modes which most dSLR cameras
should have are; Overall/Evaluative
Metering, Center-Weighted
Metering, and Spot Metering.
Different manufacturers and
models will have differing ways to
change the metering mode, so
make sure to read the user manual
of your camera. To change the
metering mode on a Canon 5D
Mark II, press the button to the
upper left of the LCD panel and use
the front dial to switch between
20Nasim Mansurov, PhotographyLife, https://photographylife.com/
understanding-metering-modes, (accessed 5 Dec, 2015).
36
Overall Metering
The default mode of most cameras,
the camera assesses everything in
the frame, averaging the lighting in
every zone to decide on an
exposure.
Center-Weighted Metering
In this mode, the camera assesses
lighting from several different
metering zones around the frame,
but focuses most of the metering
on the center of the frame. This
mode can be useful for shooting
under tricky lighting conditions.
36
Overall Metering
The default mode of most cameras,
the camera assesses everything in
the frame, averaging the lighting in
every zone to decide on an
exposure.
Center-Weighted Metering
In this mode, the camera assesses
lighting from several different
metering zones around the frame,
but focuses most of the metering
on the center of the frame. This
mode can be useful for shooting
under tricky lighting conditions.
37
Spot Metering
When using this mode, the camera
focuses its metering on a very small
area in the frame. Rather than
assessing information from all the
metering zones, it focuses on one
and ignores the others. This mode
can be useful for tricky lighting
conditions and when the scene is
much brighter or darker than your
photo’s subject.
37
Spot Metering
When using this mode, the camera
focuses its metering on a very small
area in the frame. Rather than
assessing information from all the
metering zones, it focuses on one
and ignores the others. This mode
can be useful for tricky lighting
conditions and when the scene is
much brighter or darker than your
photo’s subject.
38
Autofocus Points Using autofocus (or AF) points to
your advantage can solve many
common problems photographers
encounter. Your camera analyzes
information from the nine
autofocus points, then chooses
what to focus on. It then locks onto
the closest object which coincides
with one of the focus points. This
may work if you want to focus on
the closest object to the camera,
but often times it will cause
troubles. A more reliable method is
to manually select one of the focus
point you want to use, called single-
point autofocus.21
To change the AF point you want to
use, click on the grid button to the
top-right of the rear of your camera,
and then either use the front dial or
the joystick to switch
21Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
38
Autofocus Points Using autofocus (or AF) points to
your advantage can solve many
common problems photographers
encounter. Your camera analyzes
information from the nine
autofocus points, then chooses
what to focus on. It then locks onto
the closest object which coincides
with one of the focus points. This
may work if you want to focus on
the closest object to the camera,
but often times it will cause
troubles. A more reliable method is
to manually select one of the focus
point you want to use, called single-
point autofocus.21
To change the AF point you want to
use, click on the grid button to the
top-right of the rear of your camera,
and then either use the front dial or
the joystick to switch
21Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
39
between AF points. The focus point
you have chosen will appear on
your camera’s LCD panel and in the
viewfinder. Afterwards, you can
click on the AF-ON button while
looking through the viewfinder to
see which point you chose. The AF
point you have chosen will briefly
be highlighted in red once you press
the AF-ON button. Change the AF
mode by pressing on the AF-Drive
button.22
22Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://
www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
39
between AF points. The focus point
you have chosen will appear on
your camera’s LCD panel and in the
viewfinder. Afterwards, you can
click on the AF-ON button while
looking through the viewfinder to
see which point you chose. The AF
point you have chosen will briefly
be highlighted in red once you press
the AF-ON button. Change the AF
mode by pressing on the AF-Drive
button.22
22Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://
www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
40
You can change the camera’s
method of changing the AF point to
make it easier for yourself.
Press on the “menu” button to the
top left of the preview display.
Go to the second to last section,
named “custom functions”.
Select C. Fn. III: Autofocus/Drive
On page 3 under “AF point selection
method” select 1. Multi-controller
direct.
This allows you to change the AF
point by simply moving the joystick
in the direction of the focus point,
without clicking on the grid button
first. To use all AF points again, hit
the grid button.23
23Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
40
You can change the camera’s
method of changing the AF point to
make it easier for yourself.
Press on the “menu” button to the
top left of the preview display.
Go to the second to last section,
named “custom functions”.
Select C. Fn. III: Autofocus/Drive
On page 3 under “AF point selection
method” select 1. Multi-controller
direct.
This allows you to change the AF
point by simply moving the joystick
in the direction of the focus point,
without clicking on the grid button
first. To use all AF points again, hit
the grid button.23
23Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2013/02/07/af-points-how-to-take-control-of-
autofocus-to-get-the-shots-you-want/, (accessed 11 Dec, 2015)
41
Focus Point Tips
Auto Select
The default auto select can be the ideal
option for when you need to react quickly
so that you don’t miss a good shot. It’s
also great for tracking movement.
Upper AF Point
When shooting a landscape and you want
to focus on the distant scenery at the
expense of the foreground, use the focus
point at the very top.
Central AF Point
The focus point at the center is the most
accurate of all, therefore it’s useful for
shooting under dull or very bright lighting,
where other AF point might not be able to
focus properly.
41
Focus Point Tips
Auto Select
The default auto select can be the ideal
option for when you need to react quickly
so that you don’t miss a good shot. It’s
also great for tracking movement.
Upper AF Point
When shooting a landscape and you want
to focus on the distant scenery at the
expense of the foreground, use the focus
point at the very top.
Central AF Point
The focus point at the center is the most
accurate of all, therefore it’s useful for
shooting under dull or very bright lighting,
where other AF point might not be able to
focus properly.
42
Diagonal AF points
Generally, portraits look best when the
subject is placed slightly off the center of
the frame. When taking a portrait of
someone, choose one of the diagonal AF
points and place it right on top of either
of the person’s eyes.
Edge AF points
Using the AF points at the far left or right
can be helpful when the subject is placed
at either end of the frame, or when you
want to focus slightly more on the
foreground.
42
Diagonal AF points
Generally, portraits look best when the
subject is placed slightly off the center of
the frame. When taking a portrait of
someone, choose one of the diagonal AF
points and place it right on top of either
of the person’s eyes.
Edge AF points
Using the AF points at the far left or right
can be helpful when the subject is placed
at either end of the frame, or when you
want to focus slightly more on the
foreground.
43
Photo Composition Essentially, photo composition
determines how successful a photo
will be. It is what you include in the
frame of your shot, and how you
arrange them1. It can be difficult for
beginners to decide on what they
want to include in their photos, so
here are some rules of photo
composition.
1, Fill the Frame
Simply put, the less empty space filling
the frame, the better the shot will look. It
can sometimes be difficult to decide how
much of the frame your subject should
fill, and many photographers make the
mistake of leaving too much empty space.
When the subject is too small, it confuses
the viewers as to what they should be
looking at, which makes for a rather bad
photo.24
24Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2012/04/12/10-rules-of-photo-composition-and-why-they-work/,
(accessed 8 Dec, 2015).
43
Photo Composition Essentially, photo composition
determines how successful a photo
will be. It is what you include in the
frame of your shot, and how you
arrange them1. It can be difficult for
beginners to decide on what they
want to include in their photos, so
here are some rules of photo
composition.
1, Fill the Frame
Simply put, the less empty space filling
the frame, the better the shot will look. It
can sometimes be difficult to decide how
much of the frame your subject should
fill, and many photographers make the
mistake of leaving too much empty space.
When the subject is too small, it confuses
the viewers as to what they should be
looking at, which makes for a rather bad
photo.24
24Jeff Meyer, Digital Camera World, http://www.digitalcameraworld.com/2012/04/12/10-rules-of-photo-composition-and-why-they-work/,
(accessed 8 Dec, 2015).
44
2. Avoid the Middle
Putting the subject of your photo at
the dead center of the frame is a
very common mistake
photographers make. Move your
subject slightly more to one side of
the frame, and balance it out with
contrasting colors to avoid taking
rather boring and uninteresting
pictures.
3. Leading Lines
One way of telling if a photo is badly
composed is if the viewer’s eyes
44
2. Avoid the Middle
Putting the subject of your photo at
the dead center of the frame is a
very common mistake
photographers make. Move your
subject slightly more to one side of
the frame, and balance it out with
contrasting colors to avoid taking
rather boring and uninteresting
pictures.
3. Leading Lines
One way of telling if a photo is badly
composed is if the viewer’s eyes
45
scene with no center of attention.
Lines can be utilized to direct the
eyes of the viewer to the subject,
controlling how their eyes move
around the photo. Curved lines can
lead eyes around the frame to the
subject, while also giving a sense of
depth and perspective.
4. Use Diagonals
In a picture, vertical lines will
suggest stability, whereas horizontal
lines will give it a calm feel. On the
other hand, diagonal lines can give a
sense of uncertainty and drama,
making the photo more interesting
to look at.
45
scene with no center of attention.
Lines can be utilized to direct the
eyes of the viewer to the subject,
controlling how their eyes move
around the photo. Curved lines can
lead eyes around the frame to the
subject, while also giving a sense of
depth and perspective.
4. Use Diagonals
In a picture, vertical lines will
suggest stability, whereas horizontal
lines will give it a calm feel. On the
other hand, diagonal lines can give a
sense of uncertainty and drama,
making the photo more interesting
to look at.
46
5. Space to Move
Although photographs themselves
don’t move, they can portray a
strong sense of movement
nonetheless. If your subject is
moving, make sure it has space in
the frame to move into. It gives off
a feeling of unease when there is no
space to move into. Likewise with
portraits, the person’s gaze should
have some room to move into. So
for these types of shots, it’s a good
idea to always have a bit more room
in front of your subject than behind
it.
46
5. Space to Move
Although photographs themselves
don’t move, they can portray a
strong sense of movement
nonetheless. If your subject is
moving, make sure it has space in
the frame to move into. It gives off
a feeling of unease when there is no
space to move into. Likewise with
portraits, the person’s gaze should
have some room to move into. So
for these types of shots, it’s a good
idea to always have a bit more room
in front of your subject than behind
it.
47
6. Backgrounds
Before you take any photo, you
must always look at your
background first. If you think your
background to be unnecessary, you
can control it even though you most
likely won’t be able to remove it
completely. You can either adjust
your position to get a background
you would like, or you can use a
larger aperture to throw it out of
focus.
7. Break the Rules
The saying goes, “Rules are meant
to be broken”. These rules are
simply tips for you to improve the
quality of your shots. Breaking the
rules can bring interesting new
special effects, but you must first
know the rules and deliberately
break them. For every composition
rule that has been made, there is a
picture out there proving it wrong.
47
6. Backgrounds
Before you take any photo, you
must always look at your
background first. If you think your
background to be unnecessary, you
can control it even though you most
likely won’t be able to remove it
completely. You can either adjust
your position to get a background
you would like, or you can use a
larger aperture to throw it out of
focus.
7. Break the Rules
The saying goes, “Rules are meant
to be broken”. These rules are
simply tips for you to improve the
quality of your shots. Breaking the
rules can bring interesting new
special effects, but you must first
know the rules and deliberately
break them. For every composition
rule that has been made, there is a
picture out there proving it wrong.
48
Rules of Thumb Certain rules of thumb can be very
useful to keep at the back of your
mind when you shoot, to make sure
your photos come out the way you
want it to.
1. Sunny 16
During bright or sunny days, aperture
should be f/16 and shutter speed 1/ISO.
2. Moony 11
Shutter: 1/ISO
Full Moon: f/11
Half Moon: f/8
Quarter Moon: f/5.6
2. Camera Shake
Shutter Speed: 1/focal length of lens.
3. Flash Range
Double the distance, 4x the ISO
48
Rules of Thumb Certain rules of thumb can be very
useful to keep at the back of your
mind when you shoot, to make sure
your photos come out the way you
want it to.
1. Sunny 16
During bright or sunny days, aperture
should be f/16 and shutter speed 1/ISO.
2. Moony 11
Shutter: 1/ISO
Full Moon: f/11
Half Moon: f/8
Quarter Moon: f/5.6
2. Camera Shake
Shutter Speed: 1/focal length of lens.
3. Flash Range
Double the distance, 4x the ISO
49
4. Stopping Action
If the movement is perpendicular to the
lens, use a shutter speed 2 stops faster
than the movement. Use 1 stop faster if
the action is at a 45-degree angle to the
lens.
5. Shutter Speed with Flash
Use 1/60 shutter speed all the time.
6. Depth of Field
For maximum DOF use f/16 and for
minimum DOF use f/2.
7. Focus
Focus on the eyes if your subject has
them.
8. Sunsets
Take your metering from the area just
above the sun and use it for your
exposure. Decrease the aperture by one
stop to give it the effect of a photo taken
half and hour later.
9. Doubt
25Peter Liu, Swiss Army Nerd, http://peterliu47.com/12-photography-rules-of-thumb/, (accessed 11 Jan, 2015).
49
4. Stopping Action
If the movement is perpendicular to the
lens, use a shutter speed 2 stops faster
than the movement. Use 1 stop faster if
the action is at a 45-degree angle to the
lens.
5. Shutter Speed with Flash
Use 1/60 shutter speed all the time.
6. Depth of Field
For maximum DOF use f/16 and for
minimum DOF use f/2.
7. Focus
Focus on the eyes if your subject has
them.
8. Sunsets
Take your metering from the area just
above the sun and use it for your
exposure. Decrease the aperture by one
stop to give it the effect of a photo taken
half and hour later.
9. Doubt
25Peter Liu, Swiss Army Nerd, http://peterliu47.com/12-photography-rules-of-thumb/, (accessed 11 Jan, 2015).
50
Beginner photographers can often
feel lost without a sense of
direction as they familiarize
themselves with their camera. So
here are some tips to follow if you
ever feel hopeless or if you’re
struggling to take good photos.
1) Don’t be afraid to make
mistakes.
The best professional photographers out
there didn't immediately start taking
great photos. Photography needs practice
just like everything else.
2) Look at the background first
The quality of the background can either
make or break your photo. Beware of
things that draw attention away from
your subject, such as colorful and bright
objects or other elements that distract
the audience.
Tips for Beginners
50
Beginner photographers can often
feel lost without a sense of
direction as they familiarize
themselves with their camera. So
here are some tips to follow if you
ever feel hopeless or if you’re
struggling to take good photos.
1) Don’t be afraid to make
mistakes.
The best professional photographers out
there didn't immediately start taking
great photos. Photography needs practice
just like everything else.
2) Look at the background first
The quality of the background can either
make or break your photo. Beware of
things that draw attention away from
your subject, such as colorful and bright
objects or other elements that distract
the audience.
Tips for Beginners
51
3) Keep the beep
The beep you hear when your camera
focuses can make it much more enjoyable
for you as well as those around you when
taking pictures.
4) Don’t stress about the quality
of your camera
At the end of the day, the quality of a
photo will always come down to the
photographer and the composition of the
photo, so there’s no need to buy the most
expensive camera that you can find.
5) Wait for the right light
Shooting under soft and diffused light can
reduce the contrast and reveal detail in a
photo, while bright but overcast weather
is great for outdoor portraits and macro
photos.
6) A photo is either a ‘hell yes’ or
‘no’
7) Try to take atleast a photo per
day
8) Adding clarity, vignette, and
51
3) Keep the beep
The beep you hear when your camera
focuses can make it much more enjoyable
for you as well as those around you when
taking pictures.
4) Don’t stress about the quality
of your camera
At the end of the day, the quality of a
photo will always come down to the
photographer and the composition of the
photo, so there’s no need to buy the most
expensive camera that you can find.
5) Wait for the right light
Shooting under soft and diffused light can
reduce the contrast and reveal detail in a
photo, while bright but overcast weather
is great for outdoor portraits and macro
photos.
6) A photo is either a ‘hell yes’ or
‘no’
7) Try to take atleast a photo per
day
8) Adding clarity, vignette, and
52
make a photo better.
9) Buy books, not gear
10) The bigger your camera, the
less likely you are to carry it
around with you everyday,
meaning you will shoot less
photos.
11) Always have backups (lens,
battery, etc.) when travelling
and taking photos.
12) Be patient.
You will need to be patient as you learn to
take photographs. Photography can often
times be incredibly frustrating, and some
days you will feel like quitting
photography. But as you gain more
experience, the photos will come a lot
easier.
52
make a photo better.
9) Buy books, not gear
10) The bigger your camera, the
less likely you are to carry it
around with you everyday,
meaning you will shoot less
photos.
11) Always have backups (lens,
battery, etc.) when travelling
and taking photos.
12) Be patient.
You will need to be patient as you learn to
take photographs. Photography can often
times be incredibly frustrating, and some
days you will feel like quitting
photography. But as you gain more
experience, the photos will come a lot
easier.
53
Index aperture 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22
23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 31, 33, 34, 47, 48, 50
autofocus 24, 29, 31, 38
AF mode 39
Al Servo 29
Bulb mode 27
Camera shake 13, 20, 21, 27, 29, 48
Color 9
Exposure 7, 12, 19, 20, 34, 36, 49
Focus 7, 9, 11, 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49
53
Index aperture 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22
23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 31, 33, 34, 47, 48, 50
autofocus 24, 29, 31, 38
AF mode 39
Al Servo 29
Bulb mode 27
Camera shake 13, 20, 21, 27, 29, 48
Color 9
Exposure 7, 12, 19, 20, 34, 36, 49
Focus 7, 9, 11, 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49
54
ISO 7, 9, 11, 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49
Lighting 8, 14, 18, 20, 21, 26, 36, 37, 41
LCD panel 17, 33, 35, 39
Metering 35, 36, 37, 49
Noise 16, 18, 32
One Shot AF 24
photo composition 8, 43
Rule of Thirds 7
single-point autofocus 38
shutter speed 6, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 26,
27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 48, 49
54
ISO 7, 9, 11, 20, 23, 24, 25, 29, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49
Lighting 8, 14, 18, 20, 21, 26, 36, 37, 41
LCD panel 17, 33, 35, 39
Metering 35, 36, 37, 49
Noise 16, 18, 32
One Shot AF 24
photo composition 8, 43
Rule of Thirds 7
single-point autofocus 38
shutter speed 6, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 26,
27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 48, 49
55
Acknowledgements Thank you to…
Mr. Raja Sen
For guiding me through this
project and assisting me when I
needed help.
All my models!
Teo Kitahara Bigot
Tengis Battur
Tsommo Zorigtbaatar
Misheel Enkhbayar
Temuujin Munkhbat
Buyanaa Boldbaatar
Nyamrinchin Amarsaihan
Samanda Anandbazar
55
Acknowledgements Thank you to…
Mr. Raja Sen
For guiding me through this
project and assisting me when I
needed help.
All my models!
Teo Kitahara Bigot
Tengis Battur
Tsommo Zorigtbaatar
Misheel Enkhbayar
Temuujin Munkhbat
Buyanaa Boldbaatar
Nyamrinchin Amarsaihan
Samanda Anandbazar
56
Sources
"DSLR Tips for Beginners: How to Use Aperture-priority Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 15 Nov.
2015.
"Back to Basics - Shutter Speed." DIY Photography. DIYPhotography, 28 Aug. 2007. Web. 18 Nov.
"A Beginner's Guide To Photography." Expert Photography. ExpertPhotography, 06 Nov. 2011.
"A Beginner’s Guide to Using Aperture Priority Mode." Light Stalking. LightStalking, 14 June
2011. Web. 18 Nov. 2015.
"Camera Exposure: Aperture, ISO & Shutter Speed." CambridgeInColour. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Nov. 2015.
56
Sources
"DSLR Tips for Beginners: How to Use Aperture-priority Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 15 Nov.
2015.
"Back to Basics - Shutter Speed." DIY Photography. DIYPhotography, 28 Aug. 2007. Web. 18 Nov.
"A Beginner's Guide To Photography." Expert Photography. ExpertPhotography, 06 Nov. 2011.
"A Beginner’s Guide to Using Aperture Priority Mode." Light Stalking. LightStalking, 14 June
2011. Web. 18 Nov. 2015.
"Camera Exposure: Aperture, ISO & Shutter Speed." CambridgeInColour. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Nov. 2015.
57
"FAQ: What Is Noise in a Digital Photograph?" Adorama. AdoramaCamera, n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2015.
"Focusing Quick Tip: Single Point AF Methods." Digital Photography School. Digital
Photography School, 11 Aug. 2011. Web. 10 Dec. 2015.
"How & When to Use Aperture Priority Mode." Expert Photography. ExpertPhotography, 15 Mar.
2012. Web. 14 Nov. 2015.
"How To Choose an Aperture to Control Depth of Field." Digital Photo Secrets. Digital Photo
Secrets, n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2015.
"How to Photograph Light Trails of Cars." Digital Camera World. Digital Camera World, 12 Mar.
2014. Web. 03 Jan. 2016.
"How to Use Program Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2015.
"How to Use Program Mode to Set Your ISO." Digital Photography School. DigitalTrends, 07 Sept.
2014. Web. 20 Nov. 2015.
"How to Use Shutter-priority Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2015.
57
"FAQ: What Is Noise in a Digital Photograph?" Adorama. AdoramaCamera, n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2015.
"Focusing Quick Tip: Single Point AF Methods." Digital Photography School. Digital
Photography School, 11 Aug. 2011. Web. 10 Dec. 2015.
"How & When to Use Aperture Priority Mode." Expert Photography. ExpertPhotography, 15 Mar.
2012. Web. 14 Nov. 2015.
"How To Choose an Aperture to Control Depth of Field." Digital Photo Secrets. Digital Photo
Secrets, n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2015.
"How to Photograph Light Trails of Cars." Digital Camera World. Digital Camera World, 12 Mar.
2014. Web. 03 Jan. 2016.
"How to Use Program Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 20 Nov. 2015.
"How to Use Program Mode to Set Your ISO." Digital Photography School. DigitalTrends, 07 Sept.
2014. Web. 20 Nov. 2015.
"How to Use Shutter-priority Mode." CNET. CNET, n.d. Web. 18 Nov. 2015.
58
"Introduction to Aperture." Digital Photography School Introduction to Aperture in Digital
Photography Comments. Digital Photography School, 23 Aug. 2006. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
"Introduction to Metering Modes." Digital Photography School. Future Publishing Limited, 09
June 2009. Web. 05 Dec. 2015.
"Introduction to Photography." About.com Tech. About.com, n.d. Web. 09 Dec. 2015.
"Introduction to Shutter Speed." Digital Photography School. Digital Photography School, 07
Aug. 2006. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
Kim, Eric. "Eric Kim Blog." Eric Kim Blog. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 Dec. 2015.
LeChat, Filonia. "How Do I Set up a Book in Word or Publisher?" Small Business. SmallBusiness,
n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2015.
Liu, Peter. "12 Photography Rules Of Thumb." Peter Liu. N.p., 01 Nov. 2009. Web. 11 Jan. 2016.
58
"Introduction to Aperture." Digital Photography School Introduction to Aperture in Digital
Photography Comments. Digital Photography School, 23 Aug. 2006. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
"Introduction to Metering Modes." Digital Photography School. Future Publishing Limited, 09
June 2009. Web. 05 Dec. 2015.
"Introduction to Photography." About.com Tech. About.com, n.d. Web. 09 Dec. 2015.
"Introduction to Shutter Speed." Digital Photography School. Digital Photography School, 07
Aug. 2006. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
Kim, Eric. "Eric Kim Blog." Eric Kim Blog. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 Dec. 2015.
LeChat, Filonia. "How Do I Set up a Book in Word or Publisher?" Small Business. SmallBusiness,
n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2015.
Liu, Peter. "12 Photography Rules Of Thumb." Peter Liu. N.p., 01 Nov. 2009. Web. 11 Jan. 2016.
59
"Master Your Camera's Autofocus: Which AF Points to Use and When to Use Them." Digital Camera World. Digital
Camera World, 07 Feb. 2013. Web. 11 Dec. 2015.
"Photography 101: Introduction to Aperture." Shutterstoppers RSS. Shutterstoppers, n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2015.
"Photography 101: Introduction to Shutter Speed." Shutterstoppers RSS. Shutterstoppers, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
"10 Best Photography Tips for Beginners." Digital Camera World. Future Publishing Limited, 23 Dec. 2014. Web. 03
Dec. 2015.
"10 Rules of Photo Composition." Digital Camera World. Digital Camera World, 12 Apr. 2012. Web. 08 Dec. 2015.
"Understanding ISO - A Beginner's Guide." Photography Life. PhotographyLife, 15 Dec. 2009. Web. 13 Nov. 2015.
"Understanding Metering and Metering Modes." Photography Life. N.p., 04 Feb. 2010. Web. 5 Dec. 2015.
"Using Camera Shutter Speed Creatively." Cambridge in Colour. CambridgeinColour, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2015.
"What Is ISO? A Camera’s Sensitivity to Light Explained, and How to Use It." Digital Trends. DigitalTrends, 31
Aug. 2013. Web. 17 Nov. 2015.
Zavos, Dimitrios. Diagram of Aperture. Digital image. Zavos Photography. Zenfolio, n.d. Web. 15 Dec. 2015.
59
"Master Your Camera's Autofocus: Which AF Points to Use and When to Use Them." Digital Camera World. Digital
Camera World, 07 Feb. 2013. Web. 11 Dec. 2015.
"Photography 101: Introduction to Aperture." Shutterstoppers RSS. Shutterstoppers, n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2015.
"Photography 101: Introduction to Shutter Speed." Shutterstoppers RSS. Shutterstoppers, n.d. Web. 15 Nov. 2015.
"10 Best Photography Tips for Beginners." Digital Camera World. Future Publishing Limited, 23 Dec. 2014. Web. 03
Dec. 2015.
"10 Rules of Photo Composition." Digital Camera World. Digital Camera World, 12 Apr. 2012. Web. 08 Dec. 2015.
"Understanding ISO - A Beginner's Guide." Photography Life. PhotographyLife, 15 Dec. 2009. Web. 13 Nov. 2015.
"Understanding Metering and Metering Modes." Photography Life. N.p., 04 Feb. 2010. Web. 5 Dec. 2015.
"Using Camera Shutter Speed Creatively." Cambridge in Colour. CambridgeinColour, n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2015.
"What Is ISO? A Camera’s Sensitivity to Light Explained, and How to Use It." Digital Trends. DigitalTrends, 31
Aug. 2013. Web. 17 Nov. 2015.
Zavos, Dimitrios. Diagram of Aperture. Digital image. Zavos Photography. Zenfolio, n.d. Web. 15 Dec. 2015.
60
60