How to Use Your DSLR Camera: Part 1 – Using ISO

Welcome back to another Photography lesson brought to you by your Tampa Bay Family Photographer– Ashley Yvonne Photography.How to use dslr isoYou probably received an amazing new DSLR for Christmas, stuck it on that little green square box, otherwise known as AUTO and started using your camera. I’m very happy that got you started using your camera but I’m sure there are times when your family is on the beach and you’re shooting in bright sunlight and realize that those harsh shadows on your child’s face are not doing it for you.

What’s the reason you decided to get that DSLR? We all know the answer- to have more control over your camera’s settings and the results of your photographs.

So lets get started.

How to Use DSLR2 copy

There are multiple settings you should get to know on your camera. We will review the following over the next few posts:

  • ISO
  • Focusing Points
  • Raw vs Jpeg
  • White Balance
  • Shooting Modes

Lets start with ISO.

ISO determines how sensitive the image sensor is to light.

You will use the ISO Setting on Manual (M), Aperture Priority (Av), Shutter Priority (Tv), or Program (P).

How to Use DSLR1 copy

You will want to use ISO 100 to ISO 200 when taking pictures in bright, sunny situations. The beach is the perfect example.

You will want to use ISO 400 or ISO 700 if its overcast outside or maybe around sunset.

You will want to ISO 1000 or higher if you’re in a low light situation. (Also, consider using a tripod so that image blur doesn’t occur in photographs.)

So as you can see from the examples, the lower ISO number is when you will use it in bright situations. The higher ISO number is when you will use it in low light situations.

ISO also affects your photographs so you will need to keep this in mind. The lower the ISO number, the clearer picture quality you will receive. The higher the ISO number, the more grainy the picture.

So now you need to know how to change the ISO setting on your DSLR camera.

How to Use DSLR5 copy

Locate the ISO setting on your camera. If you have difficulty finding it, refer to your Camera Manual (this manual will save your life by the way.) Once you select the ISO button you’ll either press up and down or use a dial to change the ISO.

Review these instructions again and try them on your camera and be sure to ask any questions below!

Check out this other great article by Ashley Yvonne Photography!

About Ashley Yvonne

ashleyAshley is the owner/ photographer of Ashley Yvonne Photography. She is married to the love of her life, Chris and mom to her two pups, Bella and Kirra. She’s a big “do-it-yourselfer”, creating anything she can. Although Ashley and her husband have chosen not to have children themselves, they love your children as they are their own. Ashley is passionate about what she does and enjoys helping Tampa Bay families with their photography needs. Follow Ashley on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.