Do you tend to default to auto mode? Have you ever tried using the other modes available on your camera? In this project we are going to experiment with a variety of camera modes.
Supplies:
Note: If you are using a smart phone camera it may have multiple modes but they maybe different then ones listed above. You can still try this project using any three camera modes available on your device.
Before we jump into taking photos, let’s take a moment to learn about what the different camera modes do. We recommend reading the article camera modes explained before moving on.
If you would like more information on camera modes feel free to explore the other resource as well.
1. Select an object to photograph
2. Pick at least three of the following camera modes to try.
3. Take a photo of your object using the three different selected camera modes.
Example - Using a DSLR Camera
The first three images used preset modes. The camera made all the decisions for the settings, ISO, Aperture and shutter speed. As you can see, there are some minor differences. The last photo is a priority mode. Priority modes allows you to have control over one of the camera settings. In this case the photographer set the shutter speed to a fast setting, allowing less exposure to light. Which is why it looks darker than the others.
Example - Using a Smart Phone Camera
When you are finished taking photos, take the time to look over them. When you look at them think about the following questions:
Congratulations, you have finished Project 1 - A Multitude of Modes
Orb Photography, also known as Crystal Ball, or Lensball, Photography is a fun way to add creativity to your picture taking skills, whether you are a beginner or a long-time photographer.
Supplies:
Note: The Idea Lab has an orb you can use in the Media Lab. It also has an Orb Photography Kit you can check out with your library card!
Place the glass ball between your camera and the object you are photographing, and then shoot the picture through the ball. The orb refracts light and the image will appear upside down in the ball.
Some ideas for orb photography:
CAUTION: The orb can act like a magnifying glass and will pose a fire hazard. Keep it out of direct sunlight! Wet grass or other dry outdoor surfaces before placing the orb.
Here are some great online articles will plenty of tips to get you started with orb photography!
Light plays a big role in photography. The question is how should you light your subject to create the kind of image you want? The goal of this project is to practice using light in different ways.
Supplies:
1. Choose three lighting techniques from the list to try.
2. Read the following article to learn about the lighting techniques you chose.
3. Position your flashlight at the object you are photographing according to your selected lighting technique. This project works best in a dark or dimly lit space.
Note: Make sure to turn auto flash off on your camera.
After taking a moment to look over your photos think about these questions.
Congratulations, you have finished Project 2 - Practice with Light
Photography is used to capture a single moment in time. Usually when you take a photo of a friend or family member you ask them to stay still. This project, however, is going to challenge you to play with motion. Try to do one or both of the following:
Supplies:
For this project you are to try to capture an intentional blur or an action shot. To do this you will most likely need to play with your cameras settings, taking multiple photos of the subject. What are intentional blur and action shots?
Intentional Blur
Action Shot
Look over the associating articles to get more ideas about how to create intentional blurs or how to take an action shot. Then take some time to experiment, shooting some of your own photos.
Take the time to look over your photos and think about the following questions
Intentional Blur
Action Shot
Congratulations, you have finished Project 3 - Play with Motion