MASTER THE MODE DIAL

Learn when and how to use every exposure mode on your camera for pro results

- Lauren Scott

The mode dial is one of the most important parts of any advanced camera, but also one of the most underused. Usually found on top of the body as a physical dial or selector, it allows photographers to quickly switch between different shooting modes and adapt to varied conditions, subjects, and even creative preferences.

The acronym PASM refers to the four main exposure modes that are found on most DSLR and mirrorless cameras. In Program mode (P), which is semi-automatic, the camera selects the aperture and shutter speed, but leaves you to adjust settings like ISO, exposure compensation and white balance. In Aperture Priority mode (A or Av), you choose the aperture, and the camera adjusts the shutter speed to achieve the 'correct' exposure. Similarly in Shutter Priority mode (S, Tv, or T), you set the shutter speed, and the camera takes care of everything else. Manual mode (M) enables the photographer to take full control over all the parameters, which can be both a blessing and a curse.

Over the next few pages we'll explore how the camera behaves in each mode and explain how you can get more reliable results, in both consistent and changeable light. There's always more to learn about the humble mode dial, even for professionals, and doing so can help you to unleash the full potential of your photography equipment, not to mention make your workflow quicker and easier. Let's find out how to make the mode dial work for you.

WHEN TO WORK IN MANUAL MODE 

M mode gives you greater control over your settings - just be aware of the drawbacks