Your camera’s buttons and dials are the gateway to creative control, yet many users don’t explore their full potential. Knowing how to use each one can help you take better photos and avoid common pitfalls.
Coming to you from Benjamin Jaworskyj - Simply Learn Photography, this practical video breaks down the essential buttons on a camera. Jaworskyj starts with the basics, like the on/off switch and shutter button. These are fundamental, but even here, he provides valuable insights, such as how pressing the shutter halfway focuses the camera before taking the shot. He also explains common reasons why the shutter might not fire, such as low-contrast scenes confounding the autofocus system.
Jaworskyj highlights the importance of custom buttons like C1, which can be programmed to suit your preferences. These buttons allow you to quickly access specific settings without diving into menus, saving time in dynamic shooting situations. Many cameras also feature dials for adjusting shutter speed or aperture. Jaworskyj demonstrates how these can be used effectively with just one hand, streamlining your workflow.
A crucial yet often overlooked feature is the diopter adjustment wheel near the viewfinder. This allows you to fine-tune the viewfinder’s focus to match your eyesight. Jaworskyj stresses that improper diopter settings can make everything appear blurry, leading to unnecessary frustration. Checking and adjusting this wheel ensures clarity when composing your shots.
Flash functionality varies widely between cameras. Entry-level models often include built-in flash units, while professional cameras rely on external flashes. Jaworskyj touches on why this difference exists and how to work around it. He also introduces the menu and function (FN) buttons, explaining how to navigate menus efficiently and customize the quick menu for commonly used settings. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Jaworskyj.
