50 Things To Do Before I'm 50 | Learn To Use My DSLR On Manual (& Auto!) Mode

I've been focusing on item #32 [Learn to use my DSLR camera on manual (& auto!) mode] on my 50 Things To Do Before I'm 50 list for the past year or so.

Actually, I read Understanding Exposure back in 2013, when it was recommended in the Mastering Manual Mode class at BPC. However, I didn't work through the class materials until this past year when I pulled up those archived files and read through everything. I also checked out the materials in several other BPC classes: Fundamentals of Exposure, a great review of the information from the book with example photos & details; Photography for Bloggers; and Intentional Vacation Photography.

And I read The Beginner's Photography Guide all the way through, first without my camera in hand, then reviewing the material while trying out some things with my camera. Finally, I played around with some of the ideas on our Alaskan Adventure.  

I used the scene modes as well as aperture priority, which is becoming a go-to when I pull out the big camera. For example, I tried out a shallow depth of field on the Underground Tour in Seattle.

In addition to trying out the different camera modes, I've also been working on being more creative and trying to capture unique images that can be edited to add a quote. I captured the photo below in the waiting area of La Cuisine after taking the macaron cooking class last fall.

There are so many different settings on the camera and such a variety of ways to capture photos that I'm pretty sure I'll always be learning when it comes to photography.

However, I'm thrilled with all that I've learned about photography and how to use my DSLR and am excited to check this item completed on my 50 Things To Do Before I'm 50 List.

Do you know how to use all the features on your DSLR camera?