Camera Shooting Modes
Modern cameras offer several shooting modes that determine how much control the photographer has vs. the camera's metering system. Auto mode hands all decisions to the camera — useful for quick snapshots but prevents learning and creative control. Program (P) mode: camera sets both aperture and shutter speed for correct exposure, but the photographer can shift the combination (e.g., from f/4 at 1/250s to f/2 at 1/1000s for the same exposure, prioritizing depth-of-field or motion control). Aperture Priority (Av or A) mode: the photographer sets the aperture; the camera automatically calculates the correct shutter speed. This is the most popular mode for portraiture, street photography, and general creative work because depth-of-field (controlled by aperture) is usually the primary creative decision. The camera handles exposure changes as lighting varies. Shutter Priority (Tv or S) mode: the photographer sets the shutter speed; the camera calculates aperture. Ideal for action and sports photography where freezing motion (1/1000s or faster) takes priority over depth-of-field control. Manual (M) mode: the photographer sets both aperture and shutter speed independently, ignoring the camera's metering (though the meter reading is displayed for guidance). Manual mode is preferred in studio photography with controlled light, for consistent exposure across a long sequence (wedding receptions), and for video where consistent exposure prevents flicker. ISO can be set manually in all modes or set to Auto-ISO (the camera selects ISO to achieve correct exposure at your chosen aperture and shutter speed).