bjwags

In reading HHH, i am learning some things, but can i ask a question to you experts? I have a Canon EOS 5i that i have had about 2.5 years. From what i read that is an entry level DSLR, which is ok, cuz i am entering this hobby. I want to learn most of the capabilities of my camera. Little by little i am learning, and i am determined to keep on. I am in my 70's and decide i dont want to world to get away from me! I dont want to always use my camera in Auto, i may as well use a point and shoot. Any way i am trying to figure out some exposure situations - my camera has a choice in the menu( i forget which one) maybe exposure compensation? of using "backlight" If i choose that am i still in M mode? and do i still choose f stops and/or shutter speed for a pic ? I have other questions about stuff but will post at other times for those. I read the manuel and "Dummies" book for my specific camera which helps a lot. But I am trying to figure things out. Thanks so much for any advice.

PhotoKurtz Loc: Carterville, IL

I have difficulty with Quetions like that.

hassighedgehog Loc: Corona, CA

"backlight" is probably a mode. It is a camera controlled set of instructions that take into consideration that the lighting is towards you. It is not manual.

A. JEAN

There is a " photography for dummies". Book available at most bookstores - a six in one for about $40.00. It is the best I have found so far, that and your manual are all you need. Lyle

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

I can't find a 5i. Is your camera the T5i perhaps? If yes, on page 74 it discusses a special mode for backlit scenes. A pdf of the user manual:

http://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/5/0300010905/02/eos-rebelt5i-700d-im2-en.pdf

That page mentions the camera takes 3 shots at different exposures and you must hold the camera very steady (or place on a tripod) for the 3 shots to merge properly. It is listed under "special scene modes" and requires using the knob on top of camera, as well as the menu option (there are 3 scene modes). On page 71 it says "the camera sets everything to suit the selected mode" so no, you are no longer in manual mode once you change the knob on top of the camera.

There is, however, an "exposure compensation" option (page 119) that allows you to easily adjust for backlighting when you're in aperture priority or shutter priority. In manual mode you would change one or all (shutter speed, aperture, ISO) so that your backlit subject isn't a silhouette. There is one more option to overcome unwanted backlight, if you want to venture there: fill flash (pages 120 and 218).

emusicster

It seems that explaining "Manual", "M" mode setting as opposed to a book of instructions, is sort of like explaining jazz to a novice musician. There a number of settings that can be chosen by the photographer. ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture, White Balance, Depth of Field, etc. "M" allows you to play with them in many ways. Your experimentation will lead you to like it, eventually even to love it. A musician has myriad scales and chords to choose from in order to play "jazz". Composing on the fly requires a lot of experimentation and knowledge of many aspects of musicianship. Once experience has done its teaching "Jazz" and "M" become preferred. Musicians hunt sounds, Photographers hunt images. Good luck, play pretty, and happy hunting.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

A. Jean, respecfully, I believe the OP stated initially that he had purchased and read both of those books. /Ralph

linsee69

Here in Houston they took all the good jazz or most jazz away 95.7 but we still can take photos lol

LarryFB Loc: Depends where our RV is parked

I am strictly an amateur photographer, meaning I don't make a living off my photography, but I have been paid a little for it at times.

I have no problems using any of the modes my camera offers (be it Auto, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Programed, or Manual! If I am just taking snap shots while walking around, or at a party, Auto can work well. If I'm shooting Birds in Flight, or some sporting events, I will use shutter priority. If I'm shoot landscapes I will probably use aperture priority. If I have time to set up and work hard to get something really special, I wll use Manual.

The bottom line (I believe) is today's cameras provide you with a lot of power, and with that comes a lot of choices. I have talked to some professional Photographers (those that make significant income from their photographs) and, at least some of them only shoot on Auto. They spend their time in composition. Some of them use only minor adjustments in post processing their jpgs, yet they have photographs (call it art if you want) and have made significant sums for their effort.

Don't get hung up of "the best mode." There isn't a "best mode." However, there can easily be a "best mode" for the particular photograph you want to take!

If you haven't done it yet, read Brian Peterson's Book, "Understanding Exposure."

bjwags

I wasn't exactly sure how to post .my question. The option is actually in the scn mode. And in reading more I can't use that on a moving subject. I am trying to get a good picture of a hummingbird from my porch which makes the little guy a dark shadow. I will continue trying to figure it out on my own without some of the snarky answers I see here. I was hoping for some wise advice or suggestions. I'm disappointed.
Betsy

bjwags

I keep on trying thank yu for your answer. I have the book on exposures by Peterson and the Dummies book specific for my camera. I refer to them often but sometimes get overwhelmed with all the info. Ill figure it out and maybe one of my pictures will end up in National Geographic! :-)
I did win 3rd prize in as local photo contest Wahoo hoodoo for a flower close up. I was just wanting some help with a backlit option.
Betsy

Steve DeMott Loc: St. Louis, Missouri (Oakville area)

Try this link from June 22 on UHH. http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-537902-1.html
It's about shooting hummers and might have some useful info for you.

sloscheider Loc: Minnesota

I think you’re on the right track with exposure compensation, if the bird is coming out dark set it it +1 or +2 which tells the camera to decide on exposure and then over expose by 1 or 2 “stops” which will make the bird brighter. Same thing as the Backlit scene mode which has the camera over expose which in reality is probable the proper exposure.

I’d also say don’t worry too much about not using the Auto mode, you may be able to do everything you want by getting familiar with the various scene modes. You have a very capable camera that will run circles around most point and shoots and any cell phone, have fun :)

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

If I can make a suggestion. There are so many options when approaching exposure, that to try and cover this in a forum may not provide you with what you need, and more than you want. Have you considered joining a local photo club? There you'll find some photographers at your level, and others - often retired pros or knowledgeable advanced enthusiasts - that can help you with your quest.

CLF Loc: Raleigh, NC

Betsy, I sent you a PM and I hope it helps. Greg