Do professional photographers ever use auto mode?
Asked 8/26/2012
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2 answers
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Some photographers I know look down on using auto mode and say serious photographers should always shoot manual. But I’ve also heard from a working pro that they sometimes use automatic settings. In real professional work, do photographers use full auto or semi-auto modes, and when would they choose them instead of full manual?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
28
Yes, professionals do use auto mode.
Professional paparazzi use auto mode almost exclusively and will sometimes even tape up the controls on the camera to prevent any settings being accidentally altered. You don't have to know how to shoot manual to make money out of photography, if for example you know which restaurants which celebrities go to...
Other professional photographers may use automatic shutter speed, or aperture control and almost all use autofocus to a degree. And occasionally conditions call for full auto, e.g. when either you don't want to think about anything other than composition or your timing.
The derision people apply to auto mode is based on allowing the camera to make creative decisions for you. But there are cases when either there are more important decisions, or there is no creativity to be gained by choosing camera settings yourself. So there are extenuating circumstances that mean there is no stigma attached to using auto modes.
Originally by user1375. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1375
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes. Professionals absolutely use automatic modes when they help get the shot.
In practice, many pros use a mix of manual and automation depending on the job. Fast-paced work like events, sports, news, paparazzi, or other unpredictable situations often favors auto exposure, aperture priority, shutter priority, autofocus, or even full auto, because timing and composition matter more than adjusting every setting manually.
In controlled situations, such as studio work, photographers are more likely to use manual settings because they have time to fine-tune exposure and keep it consistent.
The real issue isn’t whether a mode is “pro” or “amateur.” It’s whether the photographer understands what the camera is doing and chooses the settings that best serve the image. Modern cameras also automate many tasks even when you think you’re shooting “manual,” especially focus-related features.
So: pros do use auto. Manual is a tool, not a badge of skill.
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