Carusoswi

Old (a relative, but reliable term depending upon how old one is compared to others . . . but, regardless, given God's grace, we will all earn that title at some point), codger, I don't believe so.

"I never said do not learn manual exposure." . . . and I never accused you of making that statement, however, you did state that "you [the OP]want to saddle yourself with unrealistic limitations." There is nothing unrealistic about the limitations of shooting in manual. It is what it is, and very realistic, sometimes very limiting, at others, very liberating. If you just want to do so, you can set your camera up in manual mode so that it behaves like a single aperture, single shutter speed point and shoot from the film days. Pretty much every shot will be in acceptable focus, acceptably free from motion blur, and you may fire away at a speed as fast as the frame rate of your camera. Given the latitude provided us by today's digital cameras, unless there is a drastic change in lighting, you really needn't worry about exposure from shot to shot or the influence of color (predominantly black or white) upon the camera's meter. I rarely shoot this way (in fact, I rarely shoot in manual, but I find that knowing how is of great benefit to my shooting experience).

"You are a complete liar if you think for a second all the practice in the world can overcome the archaic slowness of manual." I didn't express such a thought, so, why is it relevant here, and why introduce that "LIAR" term. I doubt any of us have a reason to be untruthful in expressing our opinions (which is all most of us here are trying to do - express our opinions).

"We all use manual at times but know when it is best applied." Well, bless Bess. I guess because "We all use it and know when it is best applied," the OP should abandon any effort to also use it and to also develop an understanding of when it is best applied.

"I read your praises of the D500 and all the automatic features. If manual is so great then toss all your bells and whistles for BIF and grab that wonderful manual Speed Graphic and get those great BIF photos with all your incredible manual talent." I do not, nor have I ever shot the D500 (nor have I any desire to shoot that camera), nor have I ever shot or praised a Speed Graphic.

I did state that I interpreted no ill-intent on your part towards the OP . . . that I did say, and I maintain that position. Why you became so agitated over my benign post puzzles me. What I took from the OP's opening message was that he/she wants to develop better skill and a more thorough understanding of manual photography. You, yourself, admit shooting in manual at times because you know when it is best. What is so bad about the OP learning to do the same as you.

Instead of arguing with me, it would be much more relevant for you to share your knowledge of when the manual approach is best applied.

. . . just sayin'.

Happy shooting (and posting).

Respectfully,
Caruso

lauryne stern Loc: Minnesota

Thank you for your kind encouragement. I'm constantly experimenting. Sometimes I shoot in all three programs Just to get the experience of each. Classes are not available where I live..wish there were.

lauryne stern Loc: Minnesota

Yep..should have..could have..P the magic letter next time I'm in a situation. Thanks.

lauryne stern Loc: Minnesota

I was at a fundraiser event with many ppl. Outdoors..light changed many. Picked up some nice suggestions on the comments..onward and forward.

PhotoKurtz Loc: Carterville, IL

Lots of classes at CreativeLive.com

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

If you live in or near south east Michigan check https://www.7pondsphotoexpo2017.com
a full day of classes and help

topcat Loc: Alameda, CA

Sometimes I use M with auto ISO. You can still use the + or - settings and still adjust the settings.
But other times I just use A. Very seldom S. And never P. I need to have some control over my picture, or I wouldn't have spent so much money on the camera

BebuLamar

I use manual most of the time but because it's easy. If it's difficult for you then don't.