MASTER YOUR EXPOSURES

Learn your Canon's core exposure settings and start using aperture, shutter speed, ISO and metering modes like a pro

In 1839, when Louis Daguerre created what many believe to be the first "photograph", he did so by exposing a piece of treated copper to light. Technology has moved a long way since then, but the process remains the same; you create a photograph by controlling how much light is recorded by your camera.

As a photographer, one of the fundamental concepts you need to understand is the exposure triangle. It is the foundation upon which all of your technical decisions will be made, and it's the key to unlocking your creative vision. Understanding the exposure triangle will help you to take control of your camera, and create images that truly capture the essence of your subject.

At its most basic, the exposure triangle is a combination of three settings: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. These settings determine the amount of light that reaches the camera's sensor, and as such, they have a profound impact on the final image. When used in harmony, they allow you to create a perfectly exposed image that captures your scene in the best possible way. Knowing how to change these settings and taking more control of your Canon camera and your exposures will enable you to be more creative with the use of light.

Shutter speed

The shutter determines how long your Canon's sensor is exposed to light- and changing it can conjure up wonderfully creative benefits