Aperture Priority Mode: What is it and how to use it?

You've probably heard of aperture priority mode. It is one of the most useful modes you can find on your camera. This mode allows you to capture super striking images without having to keep checking your camera settings at all times.

It can be a tool that helps you save a lot of time whether you are an amateur or professional photographer. But do you know what exactly aperture priority mode is and how to use it?

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What is aperture priority mode?

Aperture priority mode is selected on your camera's mode selection wheel. Normally is marked with the letter ‘A’ or ‘Av’.. When you select this mode you can control the opening, the ISO and white balance.

Instead, your camera will be in charge of changing the shutter speed each time the light in the scene becomes brighter or darker.

You will not be able to set the shutter speed manually with this mode selected.

Importance of Aperture in Photography

The aperture opening regulates the amount of light it lets in by the lens and also influences how in-focus or out-of-focus the background looks in your photographs. A wide aperture, such as f/1.2, will create a softer background blur.

A smaller aperture, such as f/22, will bring more background detail into focus.

Aperture is an essential tool for experimenting with depth of field.

Difference between Aperture Priority Mode and Manual Mode

Many photographers use the manual mode to have full control over the parameters of your camera. This is a mode you should go learning little by little as you learn more about photography.

However, it is not essential to use it all the time. Constantly adjusting all the settings on your camera, such as ISO, shutter speed and exposure, can be very time consuming.

Benefits of Aperture Priority Mode

Aperture priority mode gives you total control over one of the most important aspects of photography: aperture.

It will also allow you to work faster and more efficiently, especially compared to manual mode.

When to use aperture priority mode?

When YES to use	Description
Portrait Photography	To achieve an out-of-focus background and highlight the subject.
Landscape Photography	To keep all elements of the landscape in focus.
Photography in Changing Light Conditions	To automatically adjust the shutter speed according to the lighting conditions.

When NOT to use	Description
Serial Photography	May not give the desired results when taking serial photographs such as panoramas.
Astrophotography	The automatic measurement of cameras is usually not accurate for astrophotography.
Using Bulb Mode	Aperture priority mode restricts the shutter speed to 30 seconds.

How to use the aperture priority mode?

Mode selection on the camera: Look for the ‘A’ or ‘Av’ symbol on your camera's mode dial.
ISO setting: Decide whether to set the ISO in manual or auto mode according to the lighting conditions.
Aperture selection: Choose the right aperture, taking into account the depth of field you want.
Exposure compensation: Avoid overexposure or underexposure of the image by using exposure compensation.
Focus and photo test: Focus on the subject or object and take some test shots.
Experimentation: Try different openings to find the one that best suits your style.
Using the mode: In low light situations, increase the ISO to avoid shutter speeds that are too slow.
Professional use: Aperture priority mode is used by many professional photographers shooting portraits, fashion or landscapes.