Appreciation post: A foggy morning shoot flipped my view on camera modes

I always stuck with auto mode on my camera because it felt easy (you know, like this). But last month, I was out early trying to catch the sunrise over a lake. Everything came out flat and gray, no matter what I did. A guy with a tripod saw me struggling and asked if I wanted some tips. He showed me how to tweak the shutter speed to let in more light, and suddenly the colors popped. I spent the next week playing with aperture and ISO in different light, and it was like unlocking a new level. Now I can't imagine going back to full auto, even for quick snaps. That random help from a stranger totally shifted how I approach my photos.

3 comments

3 Comments

piperward1mo ago

That "unlocked a new level" feeling is real. Once you shoot manual, auto just feels like you're missing out.

cole3621mo ago

In my case, manual was so tough I nearly switched back to auto for good. Your mileage may vary, but getting it right really does change everything.

cooper.viola1mo ago

Ever try manual and just get a bunch of dark blurs? My first attempts looked like someone smeared mud on the lens.