MASTER EXPOSURE MODES

Learn how to shoot with confidence by following our field guide to mastering the Mode dial and exposure modes. While we’re focusing on Canon DSLR settings here, and some settings are exclusive to Canon cameras, most of these settings, or equivalent ones, can be found on most cameras, and the principles and techniques that we cover apply whichever make and model of camera you’re using

BASIC ZONE PART 1 Learn which ‘picture’ modes to use for which subjects, from landscapes and portraits to sports and close-ups, and delve into the ‘scene’ modes for more artistic touches

BASIC ZONE PART 2 Move from Full Auto, where the camera does it all for you, to Creative Auto, where you have some control over the look of your shots, and learn what the creative filters do

CREATIVE ZONE PART 1 Discover how setting your aperture determines the depth of field in your shots, and how to apply exposure compensation when your camera gets things wrong

CREATIVE ZONE PART 2 Learn to freeze moving subjects – or give them an artful blur – by adjusting shutter speed, and master Manual mode for complete control over your camera

BASIC ZONE PART 1

Perfect for absolute beginners, these automatic picture modes are a great way to ease yourself into photography