In my Snapshop Class, we talk about all the different shooting MODES...



Ultimately, our end goal, is to eventually feel comfortable in MANUAL mode...

But, let's be honest, it can be intimidating with all those buttons and the action happening so fast!

So let's talk about WHEN we "MIGHT" use another mode, other than MANUAL! or perhaps when
AUTO IS OKAY!! (Did I just say that???)

1. It's more important to GET THE SHOT than anything else..remember when I said that?
Practice Manual mode when you have the opportunity to practice...when something major important is going on and you don't want to miss the moment, that's NOT the time to fiddle with manual mode...as you get better and better during your PRACTICE time, when those special moments arise, you'll be more confident to spin it to M.

            *AV or A MODE; this is also a good "practice" mode to use because you only have to think about your aperture...nothing else...the camera calls the rest of the shots.  This is especially useful with a prime lens because you can have a wider aperture, ensuring the bokeh/blur, but not having to worry about the other settings. Being outdoors with LOTS of available light is also a good time to practice AV or A mode before going into Manual as well...because with lots of a light, and only allowing the camera to choose shutterspeed (not aperture) the camera will make sure to speed it up so that you not only get your blur from your chosen aperture setting, but you capture the action too.

             *if you are indoors, low light, and a moment is unfolding and you don't feel comfortable yet with what you've accomplished in your PRACTICE time...please don't feel badly using AUTO...yes, that silly pop up flash will pop up...but, so be it...AT LEAST YOU GOT THE MOMENT!!!

2. AUTO WHITE BALANCE