We wanna express ourselves creatively and uniquely, but will the exposure mode we choose allow us to do that fully? 

Here’s a rundown of how creative we can get given our exposure mode choices.

Automatic exposure mode might seem like the simplest way to get a decent picture, but that’s all we get-a decent picture.

Anybody can make a decent picture.

When it comes to creative expression, automatic exposure mode’s got a lotta limits.

Automatic exposure mode does most of the work we should be doing for us, but by doing that, it severely limits our creativity.

The priority exposure modes—like aperture priority and shutter priority—give us a bit more creative input.

We pick either the aperture or the shutter speed, and the camera handles the rest.

This lets us control the depth of field or how motion is visually represented, opening up more creative options.

But even then, we’re still letting the camera do some of the most essential parts of our work for us.

Manual exposure mode is the way to go if we want complete creative control and expression.

In manual exposure mode, we’re involved in every part of the creation of the photograph—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, focusing, etc. 

Manual exposure mode is where our creative intent comes through, because every technical and creative choice is ours.

So, when it comes to creative expression, which exposure mode gives us the most creative bang for a buck?

Manual exposure mode takes first place because it offers complete creative control; the priority exposure modes take second place because they provide moderate creative control; and automatic exposure mode takes third place because it offers minimal creative control. 

Remember, the more we study and practice, the more we can use manual exposure mode to communicate exactly what we want in our pictures.

And that’s what I’m here to help you with.

During the Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class or a series of private lessons, you’ll learn to work your camera in manual exposure mode so you can fully express yourself creatively.

However you choose to study and practice with me, I’ll help you become the best photographer you can be.

And if you’re not sure which class fits your needs, just ask—I’m always happy to help.

About Sam

Sam D'Amico, a professional photographer and photography instructor, helps anyone who wants to be a better photographer. 

He'll work with his students to increase their understanding of camera operation, composition, light, and lighting. 

Sam started working as a professional photographer in the mid-1980s.

Most notably, from 1992 to 1997, while working as a freelance photographer, he photographed over 500 assignments for the New York Times.

Additionally, Sam received awards for his work while exhibiting his photographs in shows. 

Sam began teaching photography professionally in 1998 through the Highland Park, N.J. recreation department. 

In 2002 Sam moved to Washington, D.C., and began teaching at the accredited Washington School of Photography in Bethesda, Md.

It was in 2003 that Sam developed his curriculum and started teaching classes in Washington, D.C. 

In 2018 and 2022, the Sam D'Amico Photography Classes were voted the "Best of DC" art class by the readers of the Washington City Paper. 

Many photography teachers spend a lot of time teaching about DSLRs and rules of composition that create homogenized, rigid photographs.

On the other hand, Sam teaches about camera operation, thought process, and the individual photographer's visual communication intent. 

This approach to teaching allows his students to use ANY camera (yes, even the camera on their phone) and break free of the rules of composition.

Approaching the creative process this way allows for fluid and spontaneous photographs unique to the photographer creating them.

Sam encourages his students to find their ways as photographers. 

He instills the skills in his students that result in creative, engaging, and unique compositions that reflect the photographer's intended one-of-a-kind visual expression.