Send us Fan Mail

The + and – Button on Your Camera Explained

Ever taken a photograph that looks too dark or too bright, even though your camera seemed to get the exposure right?

That's where exposure compensation comes in.

In this episode, we take a simple, practical look at what exposure compensation is, why your camera sometimes gets exposure wrong, and when you should use the + and – controls on your camera.

You'll learn:

• What exposure compensation actually does
• What +1, –1 and ⅓-stop adjustments mean
• Why cameras can struggle with very bright or very dark subjects
• How to use exposure compensation in Aperture Priority
• How it works in Shutter Priority
• Using it with Program mode and Auto ISO
• Why a white subject isn't always a reason to add exposure compensation
• How exposure compensation can be particularly useful in wildlife photography
• When changing your metering mode—or switching to Manual—might be a better solution
• How the histogram can help you judge whether your adjustment has worked

Most importantly, you'll learn a simple rule for deciding when to use it:

If you like the settings your camera is choosing, but you don't like the brightness of the photograph, exposure compensation may be exactly what you need.

And at the end of the episode, there's a simple three-photo exercise you can try with your own camera to see exactly what exposure compensation does.

Whether you're just starting to move beyond Auto or you've been using your camera for years, this is a simple technique that can give you considerably more control over your photography.

It's time for another podcast...

... And... just before I go...

How would you like to improve your photography today?

If you would, I have a free PDF that takes you through 10 tips that you can apply immediately and, I hope, will create a positive change in your photography.

So, if that sounds like something you would like, please click here and get your download.

Have a great day

Support the show

Would you like a free ebook to help you with your photography?

Click here to get your free copy of "10 Simple Steps to Improve Your Photography Today".

Support the show
Thank you for listening to my podcast. If you have enjoyed it and found it useful, please consider a subscription. Most people don't subscribe, but those who do allow me to continue to produce this content. If you would like to subscribe, you can do so here:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1803730/support

Website
Please check out my website for the latest collections, photography tips, challenges, and more!

Contact Me
You can contact me directly at: graham@ge.photography

Please don't keep me a secret! Please share my podcast with anyone else who you think might be interested.

Thank you for listening.