One of the things I see new DSLR users struggle with the most is how to make use of the standard ‘manual’ modes on their cameras. You know the ones, the ones there on the dial past the Auto setting and the little picture scene modes, usually represented with varying degrees of cryptic letters. Fortunately, though the labels change from brand to brand (Canon digital SLR cameras use different labels than Nikon digital SLR cameras, for example), they function essentially the same for all makes.

So, let’s talk about these manual modes, but first, let’s talk quickly about Auto mode so we have something to compare to.

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