How to use P mode on your camera.

If your DSLR’s automatic mode doesn’t give you enough control — but you’re not yet ready for full manual —learn how to use your camera’s P mode. It may be just what you need.

The P mode on a digital SLR stands for Programmed Automatic settings. Shooting in this mode gives you control over some settings that are automatic in your camera’s fully automatic mode. P mode is a great way to learn more about manual settings if you’re not ready to jump into manual mode with both feet quite yet.

What P mode will let you do.

P mode gives you some control but lets the camera do most of the deciding. It can be a learning tool, as well as a time saver. Using P mode enables you to do some fine-tuning without the time of a manual settings adjustment.

Here is what your camera’s P mode will allow you do to:

• Turn your flash on or off: While your new DSLR is smart, it doesn’t always understand the effect you’re after. P mode will allow you to decide if the flash is needed for the shot you want.
• Control your camera’s sensitivity to light: When you need a low shutter speed to avoid a blurry image but your shot needs more light, P mode allows you to adjust the ISO setting for the right balance.
• Fine-tune your exposure: P mode’s exposure compensation allows you to adjust the camera’s calculated exposure quickly and incrementally. If the brightness is not what you’re looking for, you can make a simple adjustment on the fly.
• Adjust your white balance: If your camera misses the mark finding the correct white balance, P mode will let you make fine adjustments.

P mode is a great intermediate step on the way to mastering full auto, but even experienced pros find P mode helpful in making quick adjustments. Discover even more great tips that will up your photography skills.

Now that you have better control over your camera, experience everything you can do with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom to edit your photos today