Exposure Triangle Basics
Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together to control brightness and creative look.
- Aperture (f-stop): Lower = more blur (f/1.8). Higher = more in focus (f/8-f/16).
- Shutter Speed: 1/500s freezes action; 1/60s for handheld; slower needs tripod.
- ISO: Keep low for clean images (100-400). Raise only when needed.
Focus Modes Sharpness
Choosing the right autofocus mode is the difference between sharp and soft images.
- Single-Point AF: Best for portraits - put the point on the eye.
- Continuous AF (AI-Servo / AF-C): For moving subjects.
- Back-Button Focus: Separates focus from shutter for more control.
- Manual Focus: Use for macro or low-light when AF hunts.
Camera Modes Control
Use the mode dial to control how much the camera decides for you.
- Aperture Priority (A/Av): You choose depth of field; camera sets shutter.
- Shutter Priority (S/Tv): You choose motion blur; camera sets aperture.
- Manual (M): Full control - best for consistent lighting.
- Program (P): Camera chooses both; you adjust ISO and exposure comp.
Lens Choices Gear
Your lens affects perspective, background blur, and how your subject feels.
- 35mm: Everyday shooting, natural perspective.
- 50mm: Portraits, low-light, shallow depth of field.
- 85mm: Flattering portraits with strong background blur.
- 70-200mm: Sports, events, compression effect.
Recommended Settings Quick Guide
Use these as starting points - adjust based on light and movement.
- Portraits: f/1.8-f/2.8, 1/200s, ISO 100-400.
- Sports: 1/1000s+, AF-C, ISO 400-1600.
- Landscapes: f/8-f/16, ISO 100, tripod if needed.
- Low Light Indoors: f/1.8-f/2.8, 1/125s, ISO 800-3200.