
Steve G. answered 02/22/24
MFA Yale University, 30+ Years Fine Art Photographer
Here are some basic considerations:
- Aperture the background and focuses sharply on the subject.: As you know, this setting controls the lens's diaphragm, which determines the amount of light that enters the lens/camera. It is measured in f-stops (e.g., f/2.8, f/8). The lower f-stop, the larger aperture, allowing more. This is better for for low-light conditions. But it also creates a shallower depth of field, blurring other areas of the photo.
- Shutter Speed: This is the duration the camera's shutter, which of course lets light onto the camera sensor. It is measured in seconds or fractions of a second (e.g., 1/500, 1/30). A faster shutter speed freezes action; a slower one can create a sense of movement.
- ISO: This importantly determines the camera's sensitivity to light. Lower values (e.g., 100, 200) are used in bright conditions to reduce noise or distortions in the image, while higher values (e.g., 3200, 6400) are used in lower light conditions but can make the photo grainier.
By adjusting these settings in various combinations, you can control the exposure and artistic aspects of your photograph. Note that experimentation and personal expression can be as or more important thant technical precision. Feel free to ask more detailed questions if you have specific scenarios in mind!