If you’ve tried shooting in Manual mode after hearing advice from photography “purists” and found your images disappointing, you’re not alone. According to landscape photography expert Jalen Oban, “It’s a myth that you have to use Manual mode to take great photos.” In his latest tutorial, Oban explores how to use other camera modes effectively, arguing that understanding different shooting modes can significantly improve your photography.
In a concise seven-minute video, Oban breaks down the differences between Manual, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority modes. He explains how each mode functions and when to use them, suggesting that Semi-Automatic modes like Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority offer more creative flexibility and are easier for most photographers to use.
Oban argues against using fully Automatic mode because it gives up too much control to the camera, which can’t know exactly what you’re trying to achieve. On the other hand, Manual mode, where you control all three key exposure settings—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—can be more challenging and is best used when lighting conditions are stable or you have time to adjust settings carefully, such as in astrophotography.
The key takeaway from Oban’s lesson is that while Manual mode has its place, it’s not always the best choice. Semi-Automatic modes allow photographers to express their creative vision more easily by selecting specific settings based on their needs. Oban advises learning how to use these modes before diving into Manual, dismissing the notion that it’s the “Holy Grail” of photography.
In the second half of his tutorial, Oban demonstrates how to use Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority effectively, providing practical tips to help photographers shoot with confidence and achieve the best results in various situations.
