Mastering Manual Settings: My Journey to Learning Manual Exposure
Learning to use manual settings on your camera can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into simple steps can make the process much easier. Here’s how I developed my understanding of manual exposure settings using a straightforward approach that worked for me.
1. Start with ISO and Aperture
To simplify things, I start by locking in two of the three exposure triangle settings: ISO and Aperture. This allows me to focus on one variable at a time without feeling overwhelmed.
- ISO: I set my ISO to a fixed value, typically 100 or 200, to minimize noise. (Easy to achieve in the light patterns I shoot in!)
- Aperture: Depending on the depth of field I wanted, I chose an aperture setting that matches my creative vision or the capabilities of my lens. This means I normally select the widest aperture for the lenses I have, typically f1.8 or f2 (Gather lots of beautiful light for fast shutter speeds and of course dreamy background!)
2. Focus on Shutter Speed
With ISO and Aperture locked in, I only have to think about Shutter Speed. My goal is to set a shutter speed that prevents camera shake or motion blur.
Here’s my rule of thumb: I set the shutter speed to at least twice the focal length of the lens I’m using. For example, if I’m shooting with a 50mm lens, I will set the shutter speed to 1/100s or faster. This simple formula helps ensure my images are sharp and free of unwanted blur.
3. Adjusting ISO for Proper Exposure
If I notice my shutter speed dropping below the minimum threshold needed for a sharp image, I will then adjust the ISO to a higher value. This increases the sensitivity to light allowing me to maintain the correct exposure without compromising the shutter speed.
For example:
- If my shutter speed drops to 1/60s and I need it to be at least 1/100th, I would increase the ISO from 200 to 400 or higher to compensate for the lost light.
4. Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Overexposure: In bright shooting conditions I’m simply shooting at a faster shutter speed as I’m at my lowest ISO. If I get to the maximum shutter speed then I will think about narrowing the aperture.
Low Light: In low-light situations, I will obviously look at shooting wide apertures to allow enough light into the camera. If I’m still not achieving the correct exposure I will continue to increase the ISO
Motion Blur: When shooting moving subjects, such as children or wildlife, achieving the right balance between shutter speed and aperture is key. I will prioritize a faster shutter speed, even if it means a slightly higher ISO.
5. Fine-Tuning My Technique
After getting comfortable with these basics, I begin to fine-tune my technique by experimenting with different settings and scenarios. I practice in various lighting conditions, from harsh midday sun to soft evening light, which helps me understand how each setting affects the final image.
- Indoor Settings: I practiced in low-light scenarios, adjusting ISO and shutter speed to achieve the desired exposure.
- Outdoor Shoots: I experimented with different apertures and shutter speeds to understand how they affect depth of field and motion capture.
6. My Takeaway
By focusing on one element of the exposure triangle at a time, I’ve simplified the learning process and have avoided feeling overwhelmed. This approach has not only helped me grasp manual settings but also made it fun and engaging. Now, adjusting manual settings feels like second nature, and I’m able to achieve the creative results I envision without relying on auto modes.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this method can be a great way to build your confidence in using manual settings. Happy shooting!
6 Comments. Leave new
Thanks! Awesome instructions!
With how good cameras now, I’ve also shot with manual (locking in aperture and shutter-speed) but leave auto-ISO on. I can set minimum and maximum ISO sensitivity the camera can select depending on the exposure. I find this helps a lot specially shooting sports, wild life, fast paced subjects, which also can apply easily with portraits. I do this with the steps and knowledge on how Daniel laid out here.
Yes, some folks like the ISO to float but I often find the camera guessing higher ISO’s than I would personally choose but if you do find yourself getting tripped up with setting ISO auto-iso can be helpful
What exposure metering should I set in my Nikon Z7ii for portraits? I have it set for Matrix metering.
Hello Nedra! Im definitely set on Matrix Metering 🙂 I think I could glue in place
would love to know what matrix metering is?
Matrix metering is a camera setting that measures light from different parts of your scene and averages it to give the best exposure for the whole picture