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If you are new to high-end cameras, you may wonder about DSLR settings for outdoor photography. After all, many of the best digital cameras are DSLR models, which often require special attention for outdoor photos. So why learn how to use the best DSLR cameras for outdoor photography and what is the best way to get started? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Learning about outdoor settings is just as important as understanding the best DSLR settings for indoor photography. This is true when learning about DSLR portrait settings or just about anything else. In other words, you need to know your camera’s settings to take good photos, even if you compare a Canon EOS 1D Mark II to a Canon 70D.
Insider Tip
If you are taking night shots outside, consider using a dedicated external flash device to ensure high-quality shots.
Integrating these settings into your routine can also help you learn how to waterproof a DSLR camera, among other outdoor-adjacent tasks.
Each camera is different, and so is each outdoor location. Here are some universal tips to get started with outdoor photography.
Before getting started with adjusting the settings, remember that the outdoors is not exactly a controlled environment. If you are going to be making settings adjustments on the fly, it is best to invest in a sturdy tripod. This will ensure the camera does not move around too much as you make these adjustments. Outdoor shots typically require slower shutter speeds than indoor shots, especially in low-light scenarios, so jostling the camera during this process translates to bad photos.
There is no cheat code here. You have to simply learn the various settings of your camera, as daytime outdoor shots are very different than night photography. Low-light shots practically require a slower shutter speed, while the opposite is true for shots taken in the bright of day. Experiment with various ISO settings, shutter speeds, aperture settings, and white balance settings. Before too long, you will be great at both daylight and nighttime photos.
STAT: Outdoor photography comes in many forms. You can shoot portraits, action shots, or landscapes in bright sunlight, shaded forests, or dark campsites — but each one requires a different camera setting. (source)
Consider the camera’s automatic mode if you are in a pinch or time crunch and want decent results without much work. This mode is generally fine-tuned for outdoor shots, especially during the day. The automatic mode instantly adjusts various parameters on the fly according to light levels and the lens you use.