Automatic Scene Modes

Digital cameras have come a long way in just the last couple of years. Technology development is not just in the camera hardware, but it is also advancing by leaps and bounds in the software of digital cameras. Almost all new cameras now have something called Automatic Scene Mode as part of their software package.

It is not always called the same thing, but Automatic Scene Mode basically describes what happens. The camera makes some decisions for the photographer based on how it perceives the needs and settings.

Cameras can not only detect light conditions, but they can also detect faces, brightness, colors, contrast, and movement. The camera then decides what the settings should be for the scene it detects. Adjustments are made to white balance, ISO, Autofocus, aperture, and shutter speed to give the user a dynamic picture.

The amazing thing is that this Automatic Scene Modes detection system has been finely tuned and can do a very good job of getting the settings just right.

It does not really matter whether you are shooting with a point and shoot camera, an entry level digital SLR or even one of the pro models, manufacturers are providing the option to "leave the driving to us".

Now, chances are that the photographer does not want to relinquish control of the camera. Many photographers are very good at that part of the process. Using Automatic Scene Modes is not a requirement. However, there is an advantage to having totally automatic shooting.

Let's say that you are new to photography, and you purchase a really nice camera that has all the capabilities you need to make your own choices for settings. You will soon discover that setting the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and other controls takes practice. You will start out by taking some good shots and some really horrible shots. It is a natural progression to shoot and learn as you experiment.

But then, there will come a time when getting the great shot is absolutely essential, and you may not have a second chance to nail it. That is the perfect time to set you camera on the Automatic Scene Mode. Let your camera do its thing when it's really important.

Switching back and forth between the automatic scene modes and full control allows the user the best of both worlds. He or she can learn when there is no emergency but switch to auto when there is.

It has been noted that there are folks who never venture off the "Auto" button on their camera. They are afraid to try to take control, they are too lazy, or they are just not interested.

At the very least, someone who purchases a new digital camera should read the manual and experiment with the different settings and controls just to see what their new equipment is capable of. They may be pleasantly surprised at what they can accomplish.

Another reason to get off Auto is to take more 'artsy' photos. The photographer can create attention-grabbing photos that do not follow the prescribed lighting or color rules. To do that, the photographer has to make some abnormal choices in aperture or shutter speed, or both.

Suggesting that the photographer learn how to “break the rules” brings up another aspect of Automatic Settings. Many cameras now are installing artistic filters as part of the camera software. This simply means that you can take a normal photo, then, through the choices in-camera, you can output your photos with creative filters applied. Common ones create photos that have a vintage look or an edgy black and white look.

Make sure you know what the camera you are interested in has to offer before making your purchase. For the more creative features, you will probably need to get one of the newer releases.