When to use the different mode of your DSLR?

Did you ever wonder how to use the different modes on the camera dial of your DSLR? Read more after the jump

There are a total of 4 different mode on your DSLR that you can actually make use to create a nice picture. The 4 main mode that you will be using is the P, A, S and the M (symbol based on the Sony DSLR). Each of the symbol has different meanings which are P for program mode, A for aperture priority mode, S for shutter priority mode and M for manual mode.You wont be needing much of the other mode as these 4 modes are already sufficient for you to shoot in whatever kind of occasion that you want to shoot.

So here is just a simplified list for you to refer and I will be explaining the purpose of using the different modes in different occasions below.

P- quick and easy events, general
S- panning, freezing, long exposure, sports
A- shallow depth of field (DOF), portrait, group picture, landscape
M- stage environment, video light disturbance, consistent lighting, panaroma, hdr, white balance constant, flash photography,macro, studio, landscape linked with spot metering, stage performance

The program mode is actually is almost the same as your Auto mode. Its just that it is much more clever as the 'small brain' in your DSLR will help you determine the proper setting to get a correct exposure. It will be useful in quick and easy event as it can help you get the setting very fast as soon as the camera has fixed it's focus. You wont need the hassle to figure out the settings needed.

For the shutter priority mode, based on my explanation in shutter speed, you would have known that the shutter could help you create different kind of effects on your photo. Therefore shutter priority is suitable for the above occasions.

Since the aperture can mainly control the depth of field, you can use it to shoot pictures with shallow depth of field, portraiture and even sceneries. You can even use this mode if you would like to shoot a blue sky as I have experienced it myself.

As for manual mode, you could use different kind of setting combination to create different kind of stunning effects. Normally the 3 modes mention before this will help you to get a picture which is metered in the centre. Thus if you want your photo to be less exposed or more exposed, you would have to do it manually.

I hope that with the few tips above, you will be able to use the mode in an appropriate manner to create your photos. Enjoy shooting.