A single-lens reflex will allow you to control every component of exposure.
Flawless exposure is the goal of every photographer. A perfectly exposed image will record value or detail in its lightest and darkest areas. Although digital single-lens reflexes (dSLR) offer an automatic mode, you can better control the ISO, shutter speed and f-stop by shooting in aperture-priority, shutter-priority or manual mode. Because the lighting conditions at each shooting site differ, it's recommended that you take multiple shots--each with slightly different settings--to ensure the best exposure.
Instructions
1. If possible, shoot with a low ISO.
Set the ISO on your camera. The ISO determines how quickly a picture will be recorded to the camera's sensor. It is advisable to shoot with the lowest possible ISO, as the higher the ISO, the grainier the image. Of course, in low-light situations, it's necessary to use a higher ISO. Luckily, with each new generation of dSLRs, ISO grain becomes less of a factor.
2. A large f-stop will yield shallow depth of field.
Set your f-stop (or lens opening). If shooting in aperture-priority mode, you will choose the f-stop and your camera will determine the corresponding shutter speed. It is best to shoot in aperture-priority mode when you need to control the photo's depth of field. According to The Luminous Landscape, depth of field "describes the range in a photograph, from near to far, that appears to be in focus." The bigger the f-stop (for example, f2, f2.8 or f4), the smaller the depth of field, meaning that less of the image will be in sharp focus. Conversely, the smaller the f-stop (for example, f16, f20 or f22), the greater the depth of field.
3. A slow shutter speed will record motion.
Set your shutter speed (the length of time that the shutter remains open). If shooting in shutter-priority, you will choose the shutter speed and you camera will determine the corresponding f-stop. It is best to shoot in shutter-priority mode when you need to either freeze motion or capture movement in your images. Shoot with a fast shutter speed to stop the action when photographing a bike race. Conversely, use a slow shutter speed (less than 1/60th of a second) to capture the soft flow of a waterfall.
4. A hand-held light meter can help you manually set your exposure.
Set both the f-stop and shutter speed manually. Use either the camera's built-in exposure level indicator or a separate hand-held meter. Shooting manually is recommended for more experienced photographers.
