Why you DON'T want to SHOOT in APERTURE PRIORITY | Wild Camping | Your images critiqued. 

Thank you team for another great show. The segment on using manual mode was both interesting and helpful, real food for thought. Marcus has opened my mind as to what is possible with shooting in manual mode after only ever shooting aperature priority. Also enjoyed Nick's adventure and his thought process for getting his shot. This really is a top end photography training channel. Stuck on the other side of the world with covid lockdown rules a workshop on the Isle of Sky with these guys is a dream.

Camera modes are tools and just like other tools they must be used in the right situation…

While using manual mode is surely helpful to learn the controls and what they do, I find your arguments come a little too short, since ISO needs also to be controlled. For my taste, it is far better to concentrate on the histrogram and the actual exposure. After some decades of experience--long enough with manual-only cameras--I often use all on auto, but of course have an eye on what the camera chooses, so I can always intercept. Mostly I only need a little tweaking on my exposure compensation and the aperture or speed. This is not always faster than using manual mode, but with the auto settings, I am prepared for the unexpected 🤩 However, I like you show, please go on like that!

Guys, this is a fantastic show. At nearly 60 yrs of age going on 21 I still feel the need to get out there and find that magical shot/image. Keep doing what you do best, it works. Ed

Almost midnight in the west of Australia, but a joy to join others catching the first showing of the program. Many thanks again for what you kindly offer!

One of the best channels on RU-vid, I really wish you guys all the best.

Thanks again for such a friendly, inclusive approach to photography. You take the audience and the audience's needs seriously. This youtube subscription has helped me stray beyond the automatic setting of (to me) an expensive camera to get much more from it, and my own landscape endeavours. Seeing folk hike for miles and hours, sometimes to come back later for want of ideal conditions, is realistic about the pursuit - you don't pretend that aspect is easy! You've got the Skye Mountains and seas and you're not afraid to use them! Thank you!

Another great show everyone. Great tips by everyone as usual. I shoot both in Aperture Priority and Manual mode, but i find it easier to use Manual mode and adjust the exposure as Marcus said. Looking forward to seeing your next show.

By far the very best photography show on RU-vid. I learn something new every time. Very informative, entertaining and set in the beautiful Isle of sky. Cant wait for next episode.

Great info Marcus on the use of manual vs. AP. I have never been truly happy with AP and just as you said have sometimes forgotten I pushed the compensation and messed up some other shots. As always you guys rock.

I think all the modes are useful depending on situation and subject. Learning to use all the modes fully is really what you should be promoting.

Thanks for the manual mode lesson. I actually watched this episode a couple of months ago and switched to M mode shortly thereafter. I now find I am shooting almost everything in manual mode with confidence. Thanks.

OK, I owe Marcus a big "Thank you!" I was a committed Aperture Priority user until I tried his thought process for using Manual mode from this show. I have to say, I'm getting a lot closer to the colors and the exposure I want right out of the camera, now! I'm feeling more confident and more ready to give medium format a go, too! Thanks, Marcus! And thank you to the entire team--another great show, as always!

photography is fun, always remember the fun.

Nick “I’m a proper camper!” Love the not so subtle dig!

Love this channel. Keep up the good work!

Thank you for another great show. Love the way Marcus explains things, thank you.

This is such a GREAT show and as a student there are so much to be observed and learned all in a a very Pleasant and Professional Environment. With so much Gratitude and Appreciation for the work you all do. Great Job! THANK YOU SO MUCH🙏

Manual mode is good when you have the time. AV (aperture priority) is good if you need to get the shot quick. Even TV if you are in need of getting a shot of something in motion. That is why we have different modes. Knowing which mode to use in a situation is how you really master your camera.

It's always good to see alternate ways of doing things. I always start out with my Canon camera in 'P' mode, so I never miss any sudden opportunities - I can quickly alter the camera-chosen settings with just a flick of the wheel by the shutter, if there is time for another shot ;). Then, once I know what I want to do, I look to see if the ambiant light is constant, or fluctuating. If it's constant, manual is the easiest; if it's changing then I often choose Aperture/Shutter priority (dependent on the effect I want - depth of field or movement in my subject) ... There is no perfect way that will always work, so find out what works for you, and always be sure you have an actual reason for doing it the way you do; that way you can compare other people's ways with yours and see if there's a way to imporove on your process.

Awesome! Thanks for reassuring me that having shot in manual from the beginning of my DSLR journey was the correct approach. Another great and inspiring show.

Thank you. Great content!

Love this channel!

Photography Online rocks 🤘🤘

Another great and informative show, enjoyed the sections on Aperture priority v manual and the '2 of us', but I also have to commend the section on the photo's that Harry did to discuss these, good to see pics that needed some work done on them and some tips on post image editing. Thanks again team, look forward to the next episode.

Another great show folks. Thanks.

Once again fantastic advice , beautiful images too , I have the book and it's brilliant jam packed with advice , tips and images always great to back to again and again . Thanks look I foward to the next one 👌👍

Aperture Priority is/was a standard way for cinematographers and DOPs to manage the 'look' of a film in camera - along with colour temperature control with filters and lighting. We used to use 'film' and it had a set ASA / ISO. So the old cinematographer's dictum was employed so you didn't even need a light meter (but you used one anyway). "At f16 on a sunny day, the shutter speed equals the ASA." After you used that rubric for a few shoots you could do the whole lighting and aperture thing in your head - look at the light off objects and shadows around them and make almost faultless filming decisions. It very quickly becomes an instinct for life. I shot most of my stuff at f8 using colour Negative Eastman and some Ilford stock. The shutter speed was fixed. The ASA was fixed. Lighting was then bent to the will of the Aperture. I'm talking several hundred commercials, tens of docos, and an award winning feature. You can get shipwrecked without a meter and make perfectly exposed pictures every time. All you need is the rubric - "At f16 on a sunny day, the shutter speed equals the ASA."

Great show as always, thanks. I moved to manual mode sometime ago and made plenty of mistakes to begin with but now it’s more instinctive . And less to think about to think about when trying to capture fleeting moments and changing light, which is definitely good for me. Still use aperture or shutter priority modes sometimes when taking wildlife shots especially when things are moving fast.

Marcus, excellent job. You really discussed the Aperture priority mode with totally unexpected concept. It's just like you mentioned for long lenses compression phenomenon. Amazing knowledge my friend, congratulations.

Again, an amazing episode. I like the session “two of us” especially!

Opened my eyes thank you!

Enjoyed your video. Love Loch Eishort. Well explained reasons to shoot in manual Exposure mode. A tip for the windy cliff top shoot - wind levels are often much less, closer to ground level, so using the tripod with legs stretched out and camera near the ground should reduce vibration allowing those stunning 6 & 10 stop ND photos to be sharper on the rocks. Could also use a large rock to add further stability too.

Have to say that Photography Online has to be the very best photographic chanel

That the best explanation of the benefits of manual over aperture priority I have ever seen! Great job!

Agree with your point on aperture priority mode, although it can be useful if lighting conditions are changing and your in a rush. Thxs for another well put together show....

just found this channel couple of months ago I am all caught up. As a returning film shooter from 40 + years ago I love their info on digital cameras. Found my way off AUTO to AP and some manual. I find my results seem to be better with AP . I notice that they shoot mostly manual. so im hoping to learn some new things to make my photos better. My gut feeling is that letting the camera compensate for my 72 year old eyes may not be a bad thing Cant wait to see the article.

Another cracking show! Especially enjoyed the manual exposure segment. Cheers!

Thank you Marcus for your enlightening article on Aperture Priority. For some years now I have operated my camera in AV mode to achieve the good depth of field and sharp images from the lense then altering the exposure to suit varying conditions seemed the norm. Changing to Manual makes so much sense. Thank you for thse insights.

Great show again. Really enjoyed Nick’s adventure piece. Shame about the sunrise. Glad he kept his hair in place though. 😁😁😁😁😁😁

This is the best free magazine program for photographers. I find it perfect for helping my photography and giving me ideas for experimentation which I really enjoy.

Fantastic shots Nick.

I love the Manual Mode discussion and have to agree with you completely (I do shoot mainly landscapes). I have been using Manual mode on my camera for the past 20 years, only my first year I used auto and semi-auto settings. I would say that when I switched to full manual, it took about 3 months before it became natural to me. But now, with the right camera (Pentax K-3 II), switching the Aperature / ISO / Shutter Speed has become like an extension of my hand. It is so natural to do and so fast and I find I often do not even think about it anymore, I just adjust the appropriate settings based on my scene and what I am after, and take the shot. Of course a Histogram helps tremendously as well but since I use a DSLR with viewfinder, I have to check after the shot. I found eventually, that I can read the light very well in a scene and pretty much imagine what the histogram would look like. After taking the shot, it ends up looking exactly how I imagined.

Hi Team: Another great video. I am sorry that I wasn't able to join you in real-time for the launch of this video. I really liked Marcus's segment on shooting in Av mode. Cheers, Keith

Good show! Thank you!

thank you guys great information

Spot on advice , thank you.

Thanks for sharing.... great video & comments...as a hobbyist I am still learning at 78 yrs old....we are in lockdown in Melbourne Australia so I loved watching your video... cheers 😀

Excellent video presentation yet again

Best photography show on youtube. Hard pressed to click away. Engaging all episode. That Marcus McAdam bloke sure knows his stuff and is a natural tutor.. Thanks for the lens cloth... it actually came in handy one photowalk i did... LOL

Hi Ruth and team another great show keep them coming. Can I just ask on the subject of SD cards, with so many on market, different speeds . different storage amounts which ones are the best for landscapes and would this be covered in any future shows, very best wishes.

Nick Hanson, you are a funny dude, just one more ingredient to an all-around great show, my absolute favorite.

Thanks for the photo review, I struggled to decide which version I preferred.

Aperture mode is good in a controlled studio imho. I use manual, since all my photography is travel or birds. Love this channel.

Hello from southern Georgian Bay, Ontario, Canada. Another great show. I started following your channel about a month ago. Best photography show on RU-vid. Love the tech tips. How’s about a follow up on Manual mode and proper use of ISO.

Another great video guys well done

Fantastic stuff once again. Thank you.

Fab show as always, thank you!!

Damn! I just found out metering modes don't matter when you're in manual mode. Great stuff guys

Was on Skye two years ago, really want to come again to this beautiful island...🥰

Also enjoyed Nicks comment about keeping his “hair” out of his eyes ! Nice one guys great show and keep up the secret scripting!!

Dr. Harry Martin - You need a Doc Martin tee shirt! Great show as usual.

Excellent and brilliant information as usual!

Well presented tutorial on aperture mode. An intermediate step to avoid missing the moment in aperture mode could be to introduce bracketing. It does create more images to look at in post but it’s easy to rank keepers in software. So a first pass elimination of under or over exposed images leaves you with higher keeper rate. It covers those moments where the sun pokes out of the clouds or the white rabbit emerges briefly from its hole. Once you see how images change because of the limitations of the camera you can move forward to manual mode, or not.

As expected, some outstanding content to the show. I frequently watch past shows because of the quality of the content, I enjoy the concept of the shows very much.The Shooting in manual verses aperture section was intriguing for me to contemplate because of my diverse shooting styles given circumstances and situations. The ideal of full manual is open to debate, I think. Circumstances dictating the means, not the means dictating to circumstances or visa versa, for me, has been down to a choice or compromise of creative control value. I’m not suggesting that there is a definitive right or wrong way. Whatever, loving the show !!

From 2:45 to 3:05, the photographer has determined he wants to stop down three stops, for better depth of field. Starting at f/4, he intuitively understands this will bring him to f/11, as the progression 4, 5.6, 8, 11 is a progression he knows like the back of his hand. For most photographers coming up from the film era, this will be true, however many photographers just starting out in digital will find this number sequence obscure, and indeed when they consult the image data from any of their pictures they are likely to find aperture values that do not adhere to this well-known series; f/7.1, f/10.3 etc etc. In order for beginning photographers to evolve to where they can use Manual mode as effortlessly as the professional demonstrating here, they must AT THE VERY LEAST memorize this progression: 1.4, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8, 11, 16,22, 32. By memorizing this, you will know what f/stop increase will correspond to a shutter speed doubling or halving. Even better than memorizing though would be to study this number sequence to UNDERSTAND it. You can see that the number doubles every two stops, but why every TWO? Why not every one? Wouldn't twice the aperture correspond to half the shutter speed? In truth, twice the aperture DOES equal half the shutter speed, but only if you are considering the AREA of the aperture. F-stop numbers are a ratio of the focal length of the lens to the DIAMETER of the aperture - not the area. To correct, the amount of change needed to the diameter in order to doulbe or halve the area of the iris, is the root of two (about 1.4) - which of course means you do it twice to get a multiplacation or division by 2. This is the arithmetic explanation - now just sticking to this known sequence; 1.4, 2, 2.8, 4, 5.6, 8.11,16,22,32 will allow you to navigate with ease between doubling and halving shutter speeds, and to make these adjustments confidently. When the camera is in automatic, or in one of the semi-automatic modes, it does not feel constrained by these standard values, which is why you will see f/7.1 or 10.3, just as you may se shutter speeds of 1/363rd of a second, or 1/829th, instead of standard 1/250, 1/500th, 1/1000th. Learning, memorizing and sticking to the standard values for both aperture and shutter speed will allow you to operate effortlessly in Manual mode, and to get the greatest control over your art.

Generally agree regarding Aperture priority vs manual for a DSLR , but with mirrorless you don't need to chimp or watch the back lcd just use your evf and get the tone you want very quickly using the exp.comp wheel. But getting to grips with aperture/speed and iso relationships is a must and this is a good way to learn.

Thanks really enjoyed the show and thanks for the evaluation of my image.

Thanks again for a great show

Brilliant. Hope to see you at the Camera show..

wonderful show team thank you all so much in sharing cheers from trev down south

Despite the fact that in certain aspects of photography I disagree with some of the instructors, these guys are great, they’ve created a fantastic product and I would like to meet them in person one day. Congratulations 👏

Hi team great show as always the segment about about AV mode was really interesting as a photographer of some 46 years i started shooting manual when i got my first camera a Zenith E and then on my next 3 cameras which where also manual when automated cameras came out i admit i got lazy and shot on the auto modes as they were a novelty but after about a year switched back to manual and have been using it for 30 + years

Ok Since subsribing to your channel, I have visited Skye, Changed the way I use a tripod and will now shoot in manual mode a lot more, just in case you wonder how your program can influence people, keep it coming

I appreciate the points made in this video. The major case in landscape photography where I see aperture priority being better than manual is in situations with rapidly changing light. Quite often I have been in conditions where there are lots of dynamic clouds, and the sun is only coming out for fleeting moments, and you only have a few seconds or even less to get the dramatic shot. The difference in brightness between when the sun is shining and and when it is hidden may be large, so that setting up your histogram while it is hidden will not be adequate, and you will not have enough time to manually adjust. In those cases, I have found that aperture priority with evaluative metering usually works well.

Spudz came. Thank you one more time, it's fantastic. Next target for buying is H&Y variable step up ring :)

You say towards the end of the AV article that by switching to M you take the cameras Meter out of the equation, if that's the case what are you metering with? Speaking purely in Landscapes with digital I'd guestimate even M shooters are still using the camera Meter whether that is to set the exposure or use the Histogram. If you use the histogram then in M you might need to change the SS, likewise in Av you use exposure comp to get the right Histogram. It could also be said that watching the Light as a priority, if you've set your Histo with Ecposure comp you don't need to check as often in Av and can just watch the light and hit the button, in M you have to watch the Histo rather than the light! All that said it's not Film, no need to be so accurate. Modern sensors and software have more than enough latitude to get it right in the processing, which you're going to use anyway so don't split hairs.

There is that 'better' word again. What is 'better' for you, might not be for someone else.. Everything has pros and cons. While I agree that Manual mode is preferable in some situations, and it's a useful thing for people to learn, most of the time I still prefer Aperture priority mode. If you learn all the modes, then you can use them how you want, when you want. To each their own, I also prefer a car with an automatic transmission... 🤷🏼‍♂️ 🙂

Great video guys thank you, what’s October time like on Skye? Hope to avoid the Midges but still have a chance of some good light? Cheers

Another great episode, as always! During the 'Just the Two of Us' feature, Nick remarks that he can't use too long an exposure due to the wind. Have any of you thought about, or even tried, to use an anchor type system to secure the tripod? Instead of hanging a swinging bag from the tripod, a ground anchor (something like a dog lead anchor that screws into the ground) and a bungie between that and the tripod, to pull the tripod down?

Great video!! What type of tripod are you using.. if you can share?

Thanks for another superb show - the best on RU-vid! I'm confused by one thing though, in your feature on Manual vs AP. You mention (in some of your answers to comments especially) using the histogram to tell if your shot is exposed correctly, but my camera only shows the histogram after I've taken the shot, but not before. Do you mean that you take a 'test' shot in manual and then adjust if the histogram shows the exposure was out? I know that mirrorless cameras display the histogram before shooting, but I can't seem to get that on my DSLR (Nikon D5600). Or do you use the camera's light meter to check exposure in an image before shooting, and use your knowledge of the subject to decide whether to under or over expose? Lastly, I never use live view, but always look through the viewfinder, mainly because the autofocus on my camera seems to 'hunt' a lot in live view. Is it still possible to use manual correctly without using live view? I've always used AP and would be interested in trying manual, but finding it all a bit mind-boggling at the moment!

Great show as always 🤌🏻

I think each shooting mode has its strengths. Maybe in a future show you can give examples when to use each one. If all cameras, even the most modern and advanced have them, it is because each mode has its own “space”. Greetings from Colombia 🇨🇴

Having only recently found your very informative channel, I have already started to see some errors I make with my photography by watching. Not quite sure about the change over to mirrorless camera's for me at the moment having built my Canon gear up to suit what I photograph. Please may I enquire what weather app you use to obtain the contents you use in this video?

Great and informative show as always. I was wondering which Osprey backpack and size Nick was using?

Top show thank you

Is it possible to briefly at the beginning of each video clip to show on screen maybe on the side or bottom what camera is being used to record the video and settings, maybe a quick look back towards the videographer every now and then and sound mic being used. Thanks as always for such a great program full of useful information.

Aperture priority mode works well for me with action and wildlife photography, easier than trying to adjust shutter speed on the fly.

Nick: “To get the money shot, a mans got to do what a mans got to do”… Ooh err missus! 🤣

Re your aperture priority piece, what’s your workflow when shooting a landscape with rapidly changing light, such as sunrise, sunset or passing clouds? If you shoot in manual, won’t you need to be continually adjusting your settings to compensate?

.... 10/10 as always ....

Do you mind telling me the name of the tripod and head? I learned a lot from this video, thanks!

Stove and dehydrated meals👍👨‍🍳good man

Very good

Thank you guys for a really informative video. Apologies if you have already covered this subject, but I would love to know your thoughts on the recent decision by Instagram, to steer away from still images to more video content. I would be grateful for any suggestions fo the best photo sharing platform as a replacement to Instagram.

Fun and informative show. Have you considered getting an mountain bike or even a dirt bike sturdy enough to haul gear to reach some of these remote locations? I'm thinking they could be time and or back savers.

What tripod and head is used by Marcus in the aperture priority segment? Id like to buy this set up

These guys never disappoint! :) Hard to believe this content is available for free

I missed the premiere, but in my defence I was out with my camera. As suggested AV is useful for walklaround street photography. I can quickly change from f/7.1 which I used for most street photography and 5.6 which I used for close ups of single objects in the street. When I go out for landscapes though, Manual is a must. As it is in most situations. But on the street I need to be able to quickly point, focus, and shoot so knowing I am on F7.1 already is really handy. Of course I know my camera and when AV won't cut it too.