A few years ago I wrote an article titled “please read the instructions and take the camera off “P” mode”. And I posted some of that article again last year after I talked to a photographer who after using a camera for over a year had never used any mode but “P”.
I had intended to write about photographing in the rain. Gosh, it has been raining here.
However, with this social lock down my shop has been closed and instead of leading my usual spring classes and talking with people there I have been getting texts and phone calls about different problems photographers were having with their cameras.
With that thought in mind I decided to review the article.
I am sure some misguided individuals who purchased their first DSLR camera might say, “Why did they waste all that paper on an instruction manual? I don’t need to read it because the pictures are just fine with the camera set on Program mode. If the pictures don’t work, I’ll just delete and try again till they look good.”
They likely tossed the box with the instructions in their recycle bin, fumble around looking for someplace to stick in the memory card, turned on the camera, selected the letter P or A, and start pressing the shutter.
If lucky, the on-camera flash is default programmed to brighten dark rooms and the magical technology produces pictures that will give them “likes” on Facebook in spite of their lack of knowledge.
Those DSLR-toting photographers are then satisfied and might never select any mode but the P mode, while wondering what all the fuss is about and rationalize their opinion by saying, “My pictures look good to me and, anyway, the instructions were confusing.”
I hear stories about photographers that complained loudly that their new cameras weren’t working properly and angrily returned the camera to the store they purchased it from, only to be shown by a patient sales clerk the section in the manual that solves the problem.
Again, it’s disappointing that they hadn’t taken the time to read their manual.
When a photographer comes to me asking for help with their new DSLR I begin with the suggestion, “put the camera on P and shoot away, but only for one week”. That’s right … only one week! And while that week passes my advice is always to read the instruction manual that came with the camera and study up on the different Modes and call, text or stop by if something is confusing.
In my opinion, that is the best way to change that new camera from an expensive point-and-shoot that is no better than a cellphone into an amazing tool, and it will help those interested in transforming their personal photography from snap shots to art.
My advice is to practice with the new DSLR and read the manual. Don’t be lazy, experiment with everything, and learn about the exciting control that Aperture priority (AV), Shutter priority (TV) and Manual mode gives one.
My camera manuals are all dog-eared, full of post-its and notations on the edges. That should be the norm for photographers that are serious enough about photography to learn about their camera.
Stay safe and be creative. These are my thoughts for this week. Contact me at www.enmanscamera.com or emcam@telus.net.
