Photo How To

We’ve said this before and we’ll probably repeat it in the future: The notion that “you’re not a real photographer unless you shoot in Manual mode” is simply absurd. And there’s vast array of stunning imagery captured by acclaimed professional photographers that easily prove the point.

Don’t get us wrong: if you prefer shooting in Manual, and continue to have success, keep at it with our blessing. On the other hand, if you capture beautiful images using one of the semi-automatic modes, there’s no reason to listen to the so-called purists—and the tutorial below explains why.

Stijn Borgers is a Belgian pro currently living in Germany’s famous Black Forest. Otherwise known as “Sightseeing Stan” on his instructional YouTube channel, he puts it like this: “No, manual mode is not the only mode worth mastering, whether you’re a beginner or experienced photographer.”

Borgers further insists that understanding camera priority modes is absolutely “essential.” In this 11-minute episode he explores the differences between shooting in Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Program, and Manual.

The specific task at hand is part of the equation, and Borgers highlights the unique advantages each camera mode offers in different situations. Thus, you may shoot in Shutter Priority when photographing action, and switch the mode dial to Aperture Priority for other types of images in which controlling depth of field is a primary concern

There’s no doubt that Manual mode is a great choice for some applications too, like with astrophotography or other long-exposure situations, just to name a couple. If you always use the same mode for everything you shoot, you may find that photography can be easier and more effective by spinning the mode dial to match the “assignment” of the day.

There’s much more to learn on “Stan’s” interesting YouTube channel, with shooting tips, discussions about photo gear, and more. So be sure to pay a visit when you have time.

And for another helpful lesson, don’t miss the tutorial we posted recently explaining a simple way to use “bokeh” for capturing unique images in the camera.