testing the waters without the auto picture mode

[wrxwheelman]

i've noticed that using the k100d supers auto picture mode, there are some times where the camera doesn't always get the exposure correct. i am wondering what is the quick and dirty method you all use in manual mode or w/e other settings out in the field to get the exposure and other settings just right.

[christinelandon]

The old classic rule of thumb is the "Sunny 16" rule: when shooting out of doors on a sunny day, set your aperture to f/16 and your shutter speed as close as possible to the reciprocal of your selected ISO (1/ISO). If it's hazy out, use f/11. If you're shooting in bright conditions under clouds, where there are no shadows, use f/8. In the shade on a bright day or in dark overcast, open up to f/5.6.

Take a test shot, and have a look at your histogram to see if you need to increase or decrease exposure. Repeat if needed. After that, as long as your lighting conditions don't change, you're good to go.

[wrxwheelman]

what if your lens doesnt go up that high of f-stops?

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by wrxwheelman

what if your lens doesnt go up that high of f-stops?

Then adjust your shutter speed to compensate.

You will probably need to choose a different shutter speed/aperture combination to adjust for camera shake &/or depth of field.

1/100 @ F16 is equivalent to the following combinations:
1/200 @ F11
1/400 @ F8
1/800 @ F5.6
etc

Rusty

[ftpaddict]

Originally Posted by wrxwheelman

what if your lens doesnt go up that high of f-stops?

Unless it's a mirror lens, I'm pretty sure they ALL go to those lengths.



In any case, I shoot mostly in Av, and whenever I need to adjust exposure a little, EV compensation does the trick.

[egordon99]

Bryan Peterson's "Understanding Exposure"
Great book!

As for how I shoot, I use Av mode and select the f-stop for the depth-of-field I want. I keep an eye on my shutter speed and adjust the ISO up if the speed is too slow.

I use exposure compensation depending on the scene.