Only when leaving the fully automatic mode and applying the semi-automatic mode aperture priority, we lay the basic to the entry into the creative photography. In addition to use the aperture priority, we still need a good understanding of the concept of depth of field and therefore good knowledge of the advanced settings of the camera and the lenses we use.
Depth of field
The depth of field refers to the area that is still sharply detected before and after the set distance and depends not only on the aperture, but also on the magnification and thus on the focal length of the lens. With open aperture (small number) and increasing focal length, the depth of field area decreases. This makes it very easy to sharply present the actual subject and isolate it from the background. Paired with the largest possible focal length impressive shots are guaranteed.
Tip: The area of the depth of field can be less than 1 cm with a small aperture number and a large focal length. Especially in portrait photography, in which ideally the focus is on the eyes, leads this to a blurred nose or blurred hair.
Creativity
The camera or the software may be innovative, but it's definitely not creative. The photographer should be creative behind the camera. That's why I never work in automatic mode. Basically, I control the depth of field by myself and do not leave it to the camera. On the other hand, however, I find the purely manual setting for the aperture, exposure and ISO too complex. That's why I work with the aperture priority and I also choose the focal point manually. I set the aperture and ISO values and let the camera calculate the time for the correct exposure.
Conclusion: Unless you want to do sports photos, the aperture priority is definitely the best choice for controlled and creative photos.
Good lenses still have an aperture ring. This simplifies the handling of the fast adjustment of the aperture.
Quick start
- Select Aperture Priority ((A) Aperture Priority or (AV) Aperture Value)
- Adjust the aperture. Select the smallest possible f-number.
- Depending on the lighting situation, set the lowest ISO value.
- Focus on the subject. Ideally choose the focus point yourself and not leave it to the camera.
Below are some examples. For more pictures on flickr click here.