GET TO KNOW YOUR CAMERA
Which button does what?
1 WHITE BALANCE (WB)
The camera analyses the scene and selects the correct colour temperature to be recorded in any given lighting situation, to neutralise colour casts (unwanted tints). Cameras have a choice of Auto WB or several Pre-sets.
2 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS ORGANISATION (ISO)
The sensor’s sensitivity to light is measured in terms equivalent to the ISO rating of film. Higher ISO speeds generate faster shutter speeds but suffer from increased noise (a grainy veil over the image).
3 LCD DISPLAY
You can view, compose and focus photos using your camera’s large LCD monitor. You can also replay and magnify results. Many monitors are now articulated (flip screen) to help take photos from low and awkward angles.
4 SHUTTER SPEED
Shutter speed determines the duration of the exposure. Depending on light and set-up, shutter speed can be as fast as 1/8000 of a second, or minutes in length.
5 F-STOP / F-NUMBER
The number assigned to a particular lens aperture. Large or wide apertures are denoted by small numbers (for example, f/2.8) and small apertures by large numbers (for example, f/22).
6 DEPTH OF FIELD (DOF)
The DOF is the amount of the scene or subject that appears sharp. This is primarily controlled by the aperture setting: the smaller the aperture (for example, f/22), the greater the depth of field. However, the zone of focus is also affected by lens focal length and camera-to-subject distance.
7 APERTURE
The opening in a camera lens through which light passes to expose the sensor. The relative size of the aperture is denoted by f/numbers.
8 MODE DIAL
Rotate this dial to select the exposure mode you require – including Auto, Aperture Priority (A or Av), Shutter Priority (S or Tv), and Manual (M). Some cameras also have a choice of ‘Scene’ modes and will store Custom User Settings.
EXPOSURE: This is the amount of light allowed to strike and expose the sensor, controlled by a combination of aperture choice, shutter speed and ISO sensitivity.
EDITING APPS
Finesse your photos
Snapseed Enhance photos and apply digital filters with this free editing app.
Lightroom Free, easy-to-use photo and video editor that offers quick and easy edits.
VSCO A free app with pre-sets and filters for easy editing. The pro option offers more possibilities.
TAKING GREAT PHOTOS OUTDOORS
Countryfile Plodcast
While shooting on a Lake District fell, outdoors photographer Dave Willis discusses what makes a great photograph and gives tips for improving your own shots of the countryside and how to make it as a professional photographer in the digital age in episode 21 of BBC Countryfile Magazine’s Plodcast.