the display on the back of a DSLR camera

What Is Auto Mode and When Should You Use It?

Gus Kostopoulos profile photo

AUTHOR:

Dave King

A passionate photographer specializing in landscapes and portraits, Dave shares tips, tutorials, and gear advice on Amateur Photographer Guide, helping beginners improve their skills and creativity.

Auto mode is a setting on a camera that allows the camera to automatically adjust its settings for the shot in frame. This includes settings such as the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This mode is designed to make it easy for people to take pictures without having to understand the technical aspects of photography. It’s often represented by a green camera icon or the word “Auto” on the camera’s display. 

Auto mode is a great feature for those who are new to photography or those who want to quickly snap a picture without worrying about adjusting the settings. However, it’s important that as an amateur photographer you understand when to use it and when not to use it in order to achieve the best results. 

When to use Auto Mode 

  • When you’re in a hurry 
    If you’re in a rush and need to take a quick picture, auto mode is the perfect option. It will automatically adjust the settings for you so that you can take the shot without worrying about adjusting the aperture, shutter speed, or ISO. 
  • When you’re new to photography 
    If you’re new to photography, auto mode is a fantastic way to get started. It will allow you to take pictures without having to understand the technical aspects of photography. This will give you a chance to learn about the different settings and how they affect the final image. 
  • When you’re in a challenging lighting situation 
    Auto mode is particularly useful when you’re in a challenging lighting situation. For example, if you’re taking a picture in a dimly lit room or in bright sunlight, auto mode will adjust the settings to ensure that the final image is well-exposed. 

When not to use Auto Mode 

  • When you want to be creative 
    If you want to be creative and take unique and artistic images, auto mode is not the best option. It will automatically adjust the settings to achieve a well-exposed image, but it may not be the look you want to achieve.
  • When you want to control the depth of field 
    Auto mode will adjust the aperture to achieve a well-exposed image, but it may not give you the desired depth of field. If you want to have a shallow depth of field to create bokeh effect or a deep depth of field to have everything in focus, you should use other modes.
  • When you’re taking action shots 
    Auto mode is not ideal for taking action shots. It may adjust the shutter speed too slow, causing motion blur in the final image. In these situations, you should use sports or action mode to achieve a faster shutter speed. 

Auto Mode Should Be A Tool Not A Crutch 

Auto mode is a useful feature that can help you quickly take a well-exposed picture without having to understand the technical aspects of photography. However, it’s important to understand when to use it and when not to use it in order to achieve the best results. When you’re in a hurry, new to photography, or in a challenging lighting situation, auto mode is a great option. However, if you want to be creative, control the depth of field, or take action shots, you should use other modes. 

It’s also important to keep in mind that auto mode is not a crutch, it’s a tool. As you learn more about photography and gain more experience, you will eventually want to move away from auto mode and start experimenting with different settings to create unique and artistic images. Auto mode is a great starting point, but it’s important to learn how to use the other modes and settings on your camera to take your photography to the next level. 

Knowing When To Use Auto Mode Will Help You Take Better Photos

In conclusion, Auto mode is an excellent feature that can help you quickly take a well-exposed picture without having to understand the technical aspects of photography. However, it’s important to understand when to use it and when not to use it in order to achieve the best results. 

More Articles

long empty highway in cold climate

7 Tips To Help You Take Better Black And White Photos

Black and white photography has a timeless and classic appeal that continues to captivate and inspire photographers of all levels. While shooting in...

macro photo of camera iris

How To Clean A Camera Lens

When done correctly, cleaning a camera lens can improve the quality of your photos and reduce artefacts like dots, smudges, and lines on...

plants and bowl of walnuts still life

7 Tips For Better Still Life Photography

Still life photography allows you to be creative and experiment with different subjects, compositions, and lighting techniques. Whether you are a professional photographer...

woman's hand holding camera, she is wearing a yellow coat and sweater

What Is The F Stop On A Camera?

In photography, the f-stop, also known as the aperture, refers to the size of the opening in the lens of a camera. It...

Camera iris

What Is Aperture Priority Mode, And When Should You Use It?

When it comes to controlling the exposure of your images, aperture priority mode can be a game changer. This mode is a favourite...

photographer in orange jacket taking nature photo

Tips For Better Nature Photography 

Nature photography is a wonderful way to capture the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Whether you are a beginner or an...

woman smiling while looking at DSLR camera

How To Use A DSLR Camera  

Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras are a popular choice among photographers because they offer a wide range of features and settings that...

long exposure light painting

Exposure Compensation. What Is It And How Can You Use It To Take Better Photos?

Exposure compensation is a feature that allows you to adjust the exposure of a photograph. It’s a way to fine-tune the camera’s automatic...

log exposure image of man walking across rocks

How To Change The Shutter Speed On A Canon Camera

Are you looking to take your photography skills to the next level? One way to do that is by learning how to manually...

man cleaning DSLR camera lens using air blower

How To Clean A Camera Sensor Without Damaging It

Keeping your camera sensor clean is essential for ensuring that your images are as sharp and clear as possible. However, cleaning a camera...

woman in white dress in a field of flowers

The Golden Hour – Why Is It A Photographer’s Best Friend?

The Golden Hour is a term used by photographers to describe the first and last hour of daylight, when the sun is low...

female athlete jumping

Tips for Taking Photos of Moving Objects

Capturing the perfect photo of a moving object can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and equipment, it’s possible to...

abstract image of purple and blue bubbles

Abstract Photography – 11 Tips For Better and Weirder Photos

Abstract photography is a creative form of photography that allows you to capture images of the world around you in a unique way....

rule of thirds in photography example picture of a pier and water

The Rule Of Thirds Explained

The rule of thirds is one of the most fundamental principles of photography composition. It is a guideline that suggests placing the subject...

someone using a drawing tablet to edit a nature photo on a macbook

Tips For Processing Your Photos Using Software

Photographers have been using post-processing techniques to touch up their images for decades, long before the advent of digital photography. However, the introduction...

male photographer in studio with two lights

How To Take Better Portrait Photos

Portrait photography is a timeless art that captures the essence of a person through a single image. Whether it’s for personal or professional...

wildlife photographer taking photos in nature

9 Tips For Improving Your Wildlife Photography

Wildlife photography is a thrilling and rewarding hobby that allows you to capture the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Whether you’re...

a line of five photographers taking photos in the desert

The Basics Ideas Of Photography

While there are a lot of great resources out there for budding photographers to learn about the technical aspects of photography (this website...

DSLR camera controls

Common DSLR Camera Controls Explained

DSLR camera’s offer a wide range of controls and features that allow for a high degree of creativity and flexibility when capturing images....

two twin boys smiling while looking at birthday cake candles

How To Take Better Photos In Low Light Conditions

Low light photography can be a challenging but rewarding endeavour for amateur photographers. Whether you’re shooting in a dimly lit room, at sunset,...

disposable camera

Disposable Cameras, How To Use One and Where To Get It Developed

Disposable cameras are a fun and nostalgic way to capture memories, but getting the film developed can be a bit of a mystery...

overhead view of camera, post-it notes, and a macbook

How Planning Ahead Is The Key To A Great Photo Shoot

How Planning Ahead Is The Key To A Great Photo Shoot  When it comes to photography, having a plan in place is crucial...

two lit candles, one red and one yellow

Depth of Field Explained

Depth of field is a photography term that refers to the area in a photograph that appears to be in focus. It is...

travel photos and portable camera on table

The Art of Travel Photography: Tips and Tricks

Travel photography is the art of capturing images of people, places, and cultures from around the world. It involves capturing moments and experiences...

the back of a couple sitting on bench in front of ocean

The Secret of Capturing Candid Moments in Photography

Capturing candid moments in photography can be one of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of the art form. These moments capture genuine...

close up of iphone camera lenses

9 Ways to Take Better Photos with Your Smartphone

As a photographer, I often get asked about the best camera to use for taking great photos. While there’s no denying the benefits...

photographer using computer and reading documents while camera is on table in front of him

10 Common Photography Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Photography is an art form that has captivated people for generations. With the rise of digital cameras and smartphones, it’s easier than ever...

photographer in the fog

10 Tips for Taking Stunning Landscape Photos 

Landscape photography is a popular genre for amateur photographers, offering the chance to capture the beauty and majesty of nature. However, taking stunning...

camera taking macro photo of a yellow butterfly

How To Get Better At Macro Photography

Have you ever wondered what makes a beautiful close-up photograph? Chances are, it’s probably macro photography. Macro photography is the art of taking...

woman at home taking overhead photo of objects on a table

10 Creative Photography Ideas to Try at Home

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there are plenty of creative photography ideas to explore at home. With the right...

The Beginner’s Photography Guide: Fix Your Most Common Camera Mistakes

Great photos don’t come from megapixels alone – a truth many new photographers discover after their first camera purchase. Your 8-megapixel camera holds...

Take Good Photos with Phone

How to Take Good Photos with Phone: A Pro Photographer’s Secret Methods

How to Take Good Photos with Phone: A Pro Photographer’s Secret Methods Remember when phone cameras could barely capture a decent selfie? Today’s...

Camera Hacks I Learned After Shooting 10,000+ Photos [Pro Secrets]

Camera Hacks I Learned After Shooting 10,000+ Photos [Pro Secrets] My photography skills improved dramatically thanks to camera hacks, and I found more...

How to Master Post Processing Photography: A Beginner’s Blueprint That Actually Works

How to Master Post Processing Photography: A Beginner’s Blueprint That Actually Works Post processing photography unlocks the true potential of your images. The...

Home Photography Lighting: Expert Tips to Build Your Studio on a Budget

Home Photography Lighting: Expert Tips to Build Your Studio on a Budget Professional-quality lighting for photography doesn’t demand expensive gear or a hefty...

The Beginner’s No-Fear Guide to Basic Camera Settings [Photographer-Approved]

The Beginner’s No-Fear Guide to Basic Camera Settings [Photographer-Approved] Your new DSLR camera came with countless buttons and settings – enough to make...

how to use a fujifilm disposable camera

Photo byjothamsutharson onPixabay Fujifilm, a renowned name within the photography industry, has been delighting photography enthusiasts for years with its range of innovative...

The Beginner’s No-Fail Guide to Manual Camera Settings [With Cheat Sheet]

The Beginner’s No-Fail Guide to Manual Camera Settings [With Cheat Sheet] Many photographers feel hesitant about manual camera settings at first. Yet these...

Architectural photography tips

Image Source: Unsplash Architectural photography is a discipline that combines art, history, and technology, serving as a gateway to the world of structures,...

How to Invert Camera on iPhone: Exploring Unique Perspectives

As an amateur photographer, your iPhone can be a powerful tool for capturing stunning images. One interesting feature that can help you take...

how to connect a canon camera to a macbook

Photo byJoshua_Willson onPixabayIf you’re a proud owner of a Canon camera and a MacBook, you’re in for a visual treat. However, to make...

how to turn a canon camera on and off

In the world of photography, Canon cameras have long been revered by enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re just starting out or have...

How to Edit Photos on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide for Amateur Photographers

With the increasing popularity of digital photography, editing your photos has become an essential step in the creative process. Mac users are fortunate...

How to edit photos on windows

Windows users have access to a wide range of powerful photo editing tools that can help transform their images into stunning works of...

How to Edit Photos on iPhone/iPad: A Comprehensive Guide

Title: How to Edit Photos on iPhone/iPad: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction: With the rise of smartphone photography, editing photos directly on your iPhone...

Architectural Photography: Tips and Techniques for Capturing Striking Images

Architectural photography is a specialized genre that focuses on capturing the beauty, details, and design elements of buildings and structures. It requires a...

The Art of Street Photography: Tips and Techniques

Street photography is a genre that celebrates the beauty and authenticity of everyday life. It involves capturing candid moments, human interactions, and the...

how to get disposable camera pictures on your phone

Photo byenzoabramo onPixabayLiving in a world where every moment is captured and shared instantly, we sometimes feel a longing for the past. The...

how to turn off flash on canon camera

Photo byGoranH onPixabayPhotography is a fascinating blend of art and technology, combining creative vision with technical expertise. At the heart of this fusion...

How to use Dynamic Range in your images

Photo byYanBad onPixabayPhotography is a complex art form that requires an understanding of various technical aspects. One such important concept is the dynamic...

how do i stop my iphone camera from flickering

Image Source: Unsplash If you’re an iPhone user who loves capturing moments with your smartphone’s camera, the last thing you want is for...