DWU2 wrote:
Looking through this thread, I don't see any point where you defined "camera settings." Are you referring to aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, or are you referring to the much broader number of settings your camera contains?
Good point. Hard to offer advice, when the EXACT problem isn't stated. Some are thinking Exposure Triangle is the issue, and he very well may fully understand that.
I find myself baffled at times with my fairly new D5600. Exposure triangle - understand that. Exposure modes, got that also. EC to override the camera - I understand the concept, but need to explore more - along with spot metering. Full Manual - I want to get to that point, but I need to be using my camera much more often, a couple of times a month won't do. I think that's the solution for me (and the OP).
I've got 3 buttons on camera customized for BBF, Shutter Mode and adjusting ISO. BBF quite easy to remember, as one has to use it constantly. But with my infrequent use of my camera, I'll be hunting around for a setting, forgetting that I assigned it to a customized button.
Many settings can be changed outside of the menu system, where they are easier to change quickly. 2 years now, starting to know that "Info" menu better.
When I need to change a setting that's only in the menu, I'm hunting for a while . . . While using my camera the other day, it was in burst mode, which I didn't want.
Did I remember that I had that assigned to a button on the front of the camera - of course not.
I was reading a Ken Rockwell camera review the other day, where he said something to the effect "I've been using nothing but matrix metering since it came out in 1983". (Referring to Nikon's first use I think)
Rockwell uses nothing else? - That just doesn't seem right, but I'm pretty much doing the same.
Minolta had matrix metering in its SRT-101 in 1966. My first 3 SLRs were all Minolta's. Last one purchased for it's auto-focusing. First one for the reviews I read about it's matrix metering.
Film was easier. No exposure triangle. Aperture / shutter speed - 2 variables. Want to change ISO - change film. Pretty limited ASA range with film. Being able to change ISO on the fly with DSLRs - amazing stuff.
All the settings though - mind boggling - many I haven't even touched. I haven't taken my camera off auto-white balance.
And then there's post processing . . . I've been shooting RAW + JPG, one of these days . . . , right now I'm in the midst of a 1200 mile move.
Last resort - cheat, put your xxx dollar camera in "AUTO" and get the shot. More often than not you get an image that's a keeper.