With every new model of a camera, auto settings continue to improve. Auto settings allow users to quickly focus on their subject without missing the moment. Though there are many advantages to shooting with this setting, there are still certain situations where manual setting adds better quality to the shot. Using manual settings, gives the photographer more control over the photo, and achieve effects that are not possible using auto settings. Manual settings may seem like a longer route in the beginning, but with a little patience and practice, the benefits of using manual settings becomes clearer.
When using autofocus in situations where there’s not enough light, the setting will end up searching for something to lock its focus on. Although some cameras have a focus lamp, it doesn’t always help, especially at night where lighting is minimal.
Setting up light in the spot where the camera needs to focus can help, but in the event that the subject being shot is light trails, star trails, and/or light painting, it is better to choose manual settings to have control over what is the main focus.
To achieve great lighting in photographs, choose the right shutter speed, aperture, and ISO sensitivity. If a lens has a smaller aperture, it’s going to be difficult to use auto mode in low light environments. When it comes to manual focusing, no manipulation is necessary. Shooting in low light situations can be difficult when it comes to focusing. The camera will struggle in auto mode every time a shot is taken, the lens will whirl from one end to the other and back again before deciding on where to focus. This can really lengthen the shooting process and make taking quick candid shots quite frustrating. So switch to manual focus, and be sure to hold the camera very steady when getting the shot.