What is a Proper Exposure in Photography?

Question

Proper exposure is what photographers call the balance between the aperture, shutter speed and ISO. You can make it brighter (overexpose) or darker (underexpose) as well. It depends on the preference you desire. Most photographers want to understand this, and it can seem very complicated for many photographers to master. In fact, it can be learned quickly with a few basic ideas.

Answer 1

Hi,

I'm going to try to make this as simplified as possible.

To truly answer your question, proper exposure is the histogram rounding up at the middle maybe edging closer to the highlights where all image detail is clear,highlight and shadow is neither blown out or underexposed and have flexibility to be adjusted. In Lightroom you can check with J. This is the text book answer.

Here are my opinion and answers. Truthfully, you need to understand your image composition and style.

I veer more towards the bright and airy style, so I'll want to under expose my images when photographing on digital to retain the highlight and brighten up all the shadow details in post processing.

If you're able to identify how you photograph, understanding the exposure techniques to photograph what best suits your need when editing will help you tremendously.

Hope I was able to help!

Answer 2

There are three main parts. The aperture shows blur in the background if the number is low. The shutter speed allows motion to be as seen clearly (higher number) or become blurry (lower one) .. so you decide which you prefer. The ISO can add light when the number is moved higher. Finding a balance between these elements creates what is called a proper exposure. You can use the exposure meter to check your exposure through the viewfinder and this will give you a sense of what the exposure will look like when you see the picture later. Some cameras now let you see this in real time. Some cell phones now allow you to manipulate these settings as well.