Photo How To

This quick tutorial from instructor Mark Denney begins with a question nobody wants to hear: "Is your camera secretly dying?" This disturbing concern has to do with the fact that every camera has a finite life span, and if you don't check the shutter count regulalrly you may be in for a rude awakening.

In fact, Denney refers to shutter count as "the hidden number that could kill your camera." In other words, ignore it at your peril because your camera might be closer to failure than you think. Bottom line: "this video could save you from costly repairs, missed shots, or even a total camera breakdown."

It doesn't really matter if you're an amateur or pro, or whether you're shooting with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Thus, this oft-ignored number affects every single photographer. Denney covers this essential topic in barely eight minutes, beginning with what shutter count really means and why it matters—even if if you take care of your gear and the camera you use looks virtually.

Denney explains the procedure for determining how many clicks are too many for your specific camera, because the answer varies wildly from one model to another—with higher-end cameras designed to last the longest before it's time to consider repair or replacement. He then walks you through the fasted and easiest method for checking your shutter count now and in the future.

One key consideration is the differences between mechanical and electronic shuuters, and the associated ramifications for longevity. You'll also learn why some modern cameras like the Nikon Z8 no longer even have a mechanical shutter.

So here's the deal: Check your shutter count today and hope you don't receive an alarming surprise. Then head over to Denney's instructional YouTube channel where there's plenty learn about gear, outdoor shooting techniques, and post-processing methods.

On a related note, don't miss the recent tutorial we featured with another accomplished pro who demonstrates several interesting techniques for using shutter speed to capture attention-grabbing photographs with an artistic flair.