Free Cheat Sheet: Exposure Modes

AUTO MODE

• This is the mode for when you want to take a picture and not think about a thing. In this mode the camera does everything for you.

AUTO NO FLASH

• This setting still chooses everything for you but won’t pop up the flash. This is good for places where flash isn’t allowed. However, beware of blurry photos.

PORTRAIT MODE

• In this mode the camera tries to pick an open aperture to throw the background out of focus. It also softens the skin tones in the photo.

LANDSCAPE MODE

• This mode chooses a closed(ish) aperture to maximize depth of field. It is intended for use in daylight. A tripod should be used in low light.

CHILD MODE

• Keeps photos colorful and vivid and skin tones soft. This mode also tries to choose a fast enough shutter speed to keep children in focus. (Not available on Canon.)

SPORTS MODE

• This mode switches off the flash and the camera chooses fast shutter speeds to help freeze action.

CLOSE-UP MODE

• This mode helps you take close-up photos. Nikon chooses a small aperture; Canon a wide one. A tripod is recommended.

NIGHT PORTRAIT MODE

• This setting combines the on-camera flash and a slow shutter speed to make use of the available light as well as light up the photo with flash.