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Nikon MOMents: A is for Aperture

July 22, 2014 By Lena

A few weeks ago, I shared my fab news: I’m a Nikon MOMents Blogger! Over the next 12 months, I’ll be documenting my life (nothing new) with my Nikon D3300 camera (very new – and exciting). After taking in an informative training session last month, I felt ready to unleash my inner shutterbug.

Now if there’s one thing I learned from the Nikon D3300 training, it’s this: purchasing an expensive DSLR camera, and then proceeding to shoot in Auto, is likely one of the most costly mistakes you’ll ever make. It’s kind of like buying a car and not using the air conditioning, radio or power moonroof! Because if you don’t take the time to understand your new DSLR and its features, then you’re better off using your camera phone. Seriously, I mean that.

I’m guilty, of course. Last year, I purchased a DSLR camera and thought I was so-o cool. Sure, the quality of my pictures improved, but I was shooting still objects. And using the flash. And pretending like I knew what I was doing. That is, of course, until my son ran across the lawn, yelling “take a picture of me!” and as I held down the shutter in Auto (Flash Off) Mode… it returned a gloriously, über high quality, BLURRY photo.

But I spent hundreds of dollars on my camera! How rude!

And that’s why it’s great to have a kick-ass camera, but it’s equally important to know how to use it. After training, playing around, learning and being curious about the functions of my Nikon D3300 camera, I’m really starting to feel comfortable behind the lens. Today, I’m actually kind of giddy to show you how far I’ve come!

JW Marriott MuskokaNow y’all probably know that my husband and I celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary two weeks ago. We trekked up to the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, where we spent a few wonderful days celebrating our marriage and family. Camera in tow, I dared myself to move away from Auto to my new favourite mode, Aperture.

Ah, Aperture. Where have you been all my life?

Aperture refers to the opening of a lens’s diaphragm through which light passes. It is calibrated in f/stops, where the lower f/stops give more exposure because they represent the larger apertures, and the higher f/stops give less exposure because they represent smaller apertures. I *could* go into detail, but honestly, that’s what Google is for. All you have to know is this: Aperture mode gives you MUCH more control over the brightness, creative blur and sharpness of your photos. 

The following photos highlight our stay, and show off several modes of the Nikon D3300.

Although I tried to avoid the Auto Scene Mode as much as possible, sometimes, it’s simply a viable option. The clarity and focus of the Nikon D3300 is incredibly stunning in plain ol’ Auto, as witnessed in the photo below. You may notice the seagull in the top left portion; it is literally frozen in mid-air. Not bad for Auto, eh?

JW Marriott MuskokaThe old Lena would have probably stepped on tip toes to get a shot of the lake over the thick iron fence. The new Lena shoots through the iron fence, using creative blur to her advantage to stage the photo. And that is the last you’ll hear of me talking in the third person, promise. Photo taken in Aperture Exposure Mode.

JW Marriott MuskokaOne of the highlights of our stay was the Pontoon Boat Cruise with Muskoka Sports and Recreation. Once on the lake, I put Nikon’s 18-55mm lens to the test, zooming in across the vast lake to snap the photo below, taken in the Landscape Scene Mode. Even after zooming in as closely as possible, there is not a hint of graininess in the photo. Truthfully speaking, I don’t think I could say the same for my other DSLR. Colour me impressed.

JW Marriott Muskoka(Let us all pause for a moment to marvel at the perfectly calm lake. A dream.)

Before learning the ins and outs of the Nikon D3300, I admit I would have tried to take a photograph from the moving boat in Auto (Flash Off) Mode. Because, of course, that was one of only two modes that I was comfortable using. So you know what? I took a photo of the water in Auto (Flash Off) Mode. And it’s downright scary.

JW Marriott MuskokaHowever, I do know better. So I adjusted my dial to Sports Scene Mode, and retook the picture. The mode is built on the principles of sports photography: continuous focusing, large apertures and fast shutter speeds. Quite the difference, no?

JW Marriott MuskokaAnd as the sun streamed through the clouds, I caught my little guy, mesmerized by the waves. Although I took the photograph in Child Scene Mode, Reid was so serene, almost any mode would have captured his innocence.

JW Marriott MuskokaLater that evening, we dined at the hotel’s Italian restaurant, where I ordered the seafood pasta. The restaurant was very dimly lit, and I worried that my pictures would simply not turn out. Quite the predicament when you’re reviewing the establishment! And really, flash photography is simply a no-no when dining at night, so I was in quite the pickle. Normally, I simply would have shot in Auto (Flash Off) Mode and hoped for the best –

JW Marriott MuskokaBut now, it’s like the heavens parted and the angels descended on earth, declaring one word: Aperture.

JW Marriott MuskokaWhen opening up the light through the lens, you can almost trick the camera into thinking you’re shooting in daylight. Remember, the above photo was taken at 8:30pm in a very dimly lit restaurant! Nikon D3300, how I love thee!

I hope I’ve demonstrated the importance of learning to use your DSLR. I promise this will be one of the more technical posts as part of my collaboration with Nikon MOMents – from here on in, we can simply enjoy the photography! To begin, how about a super cute kid licking an ice cream cone?

JW Marriott Muskoka

I am part of the Nikon MOMents program with Mom Central Canada, and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #NikonMOMents, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, Nikon Canada

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Soozle

    July 22, 2014 at 8:35 am

    Great photos and tips! I have to say I am guilty of not using my own camera to its full capabilities as well.. Why? Some of it is laziness but it is mostly a lack of knowledge.. which could easily be fixed with some simple googling of tips!

    Congrats again on being part of the Nikon MOMents program and looking forward to hearing and seeing more! :)

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:29 pm

      Thank you Soozle. Sometimes even an hour of knowledge can up your photography game! I hope you explore your camera!

  2. Darlene Schuller

    July 22, 2014 at 9:23 am

    I have a DSLR camera.. oi.. sooo much to learn I haven’t even started.. I need a class, but for now I’m thankful for the tips.

    Love the pictures the Nikon takes!!!!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:30 pm

      Please do carve out some to learn your camera Darlene – it is SO worth it!

  3. Heather Lynne

    July 22, 2014 at 10:18 am

    I love the comparison of the water from the boat in auto vs. sports mode! And the photo taken through the iron fence :) It’s so fun to see each of the different #NikonMOMents posts going up and to see the perspective of each blogger!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:31 pm

      I’m looking forward to reading them all this weekend!

  4. Tammy @inRdream

    July 22, 2014 at 10:32 am

    Lena your pictures are beautiful! I have to agree with you since holding and learning about our new Nikon, I have found my inner shutter bug. A new confidence behind the lens has broke out. The picture of the lake just makes me happy to be Canadian. Capturing a little boys wonder makes me smile. Thanks for walking us through your memories captured in time.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:31 pm

      Aw, it warms my heart to read your words. Thank you Tammy!

  5. Judy Cowan

    July 22, 2014 at 10:35 am

    Great photos and tips! I have to admit that I am an “auto” fan and rarely move off of it but after reading this I really think I need to get brave and play with my camera!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:32 pm

      Yes! Be brave! Auto is great… but aperture is my new best friend!

  6. Parent Club

    July 22, 2014 at 11:15 am

    The detail in your sports mode pictures is stunning. I can see water drops!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:35 pm

      I know right?? One of my fave pics!

  7. Lynda Cook

    July 22, 2014 at 1:16 pm

    Awesome shots and great tips, I really need to get me a camera, taking pictures with my phone just doesn’t cut it

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:35 pm

      Phone pictures are great, but a quality camera makes your memories come alive :)

  8. Anne Taylor

    July 22, 2014 at 1:27 pm

    Gorgeous photos Lena! Thanks for the tips!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:35 pm

      You’re very welcome!

  9. jan

    July 22, 2014 at 1:30 pm

    I too need some sort of class. We tried not staying in auto mode during a very costly trip and came out with the worst, most disappointing pictures of our life.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:36 pm

      I feel your pain! My husband decided to experiment on our first trip to Disney… I have about 5 good photos. Cry!!

  10. Suzie M

    July 22, 2014 at 3:21 pm

    We buy this great equipment & the never use it to its full potential my smart phone is 1 example

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:36 pm

      I hear you. I use my phone to pick up calls and tweet! LOL

  11. Chandra Christine O'Connor

    July 22, 2014 at 3:27 pm

    oh I want one of those cameras so bad, one of these days Im going to win one because I sure cant afford them. ice cream looked good too :) . what a diff between the water shots.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:37 pm

      I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you!

  12. MrDisco

    July 22, 2014 at 5:28 pm

    good tip

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:37 pm

      Thanks!

  13. JaimeeM

    July 22, 2014 at 5:49 pm

    What a difference aperture makes!

    • Jenny

      July 28, 2014 at 8:40 am

      I was thinking the same thing!

      • Lena

        August 1, 2014 at 4:37 pm

        Indeed it does! Please get to know this mode!

  14. Renee LeBlanc

    July 22, 2014 at 6:02 pm

    I love the picture through the window to the kids of the trampoline, great shot!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:37 pm

      Thank you Renee!

  15. Athena

    July 22, 2014 at 6:08 pm

    What amazing pictures!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 4:37 pm

      Thank you Athena :)

  16. Flora M

    July 22, 2014 at 6:14 pm

    I don’t have a DSLR yet, but WOW – the difference in the modes is amazing. I have a film SLR camera, so I know a little about how to play with apertures etc and I am so glad to hear that their digital brothers have the same features.
    Now that I have seen the amazing shots (water droplets) you can capture with it, I think it is time to stop stalling and start seriously thinking about investing in a DSLR – (and thanks to you the Nikon D3300 seems to be leading the pack).

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:22 pm

      That is so wonderful to hear. You deserve it, and I have no doubt you will take beautiful pictures!

  17. Nicky

    July 22, 2014 at 6:29 pm

    you take great photos! it’s fun to follow your journey as photographer :-)

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:22 pm

      Thanks Nicky!

  18. Karen E. Hill

    July 22, 2014 at 7:48 pm

    I would give my left arm to have a Nikon as my Fuji digital is on its way out and my Father has always sworn by a Nikon

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:23 pm

      Don’t do that! You need your left arm to hold the camera! :)

  19. loucheryl

    July 22, 2014 at 8:41 pm

    I love the photo of the little guy eating the ice cream cone! ADORABLE!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:23 pm

      Aw, thank you!

  20. Chandra Christine O'Connor

    July 23, 2014 at 9:23 am

    Have to ask what does Aperture mean?

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:24 pm

      Hey Chandra, I *sort of* explained it in my post – that’s the best I can do :)

  21. nicolthepickle

    July 23, 2014 at 10:24 am

    The picture through the fence is very cool.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:24 pm

      Thank you Nicoline!

  22. G.Smith

    July 23, 2014 at 10:29 am

    Great tips for the budding photographer.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:24 pm

      Thanks! I appreciate it!

  23. Victoria Ess

    July 23, 2014 at 11:32 am

    You do take wonderful photos! Great tips!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:24 pm

      I’m learning Victoria :) Thank you!

  24. Rossana

    July 23, 2014 at 12:34 pm

    Wow, amazing some of the difference! Great pics- looks like your learning so much. :)

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm

      Yup, getting a little better each day! Thanks Rossana!

  25. Keri

    July 23, 2014 at 12:38 pm

    Your new pictures look great! :)

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm

      Thank you Keri!

  26. MrDisco

    July 23, 2014 at 10:54 pm

    The waterfall pic would look fantastic with a slower shutter speed

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm

      I know, it would. I need to play with that a bit.

  27. Eldon

    July 23, 2014 at 11:48 pm

    Great pictures!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 5:25 pm

      Thanks Eldon!

  28. Melinda L.

    July 24, 2014 at 11:00 am

    I think some of us are guilty of not bothering to learn the various settings on our cameras *cough* guilty here. Awesome pictures!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:25 pm

      Thanks Melinda! And no excuse now!

  29. Jane Reid Gray

    July 25, 2014 at 3:58 pm

    Great review most informative! Many Thanks

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:25 pm

      Thanks Jane!

  30. Jayne Cameron

    July 25, 2014 at 4:32 pm

    I Love the pictures. and appreciate the tips provided.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:26 pm

      I’m looking forward to my continued learning as I go!

  31. Treen Goodwin

    July 26, 2014 at 1:56 pm

    Awesome tips and very nice pis , i need to take classes as well i have a camera and i don’t know half of what it can do .. thanks for sharing :)

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:26 pm

      You’re very welcome Treen!

  32. Linda Klages

    July 26, 2014 at 5:56 pm

    good to remind us of the features – would love to take a course

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:26 pm

      I think it’s so worth it. I learned so much!

  33. marissa

    July 27, 2014 at 3:48 pm

    Awesome pictures and thanks for all the info. and tips.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:26 pm

      Thanks Marissa, and you’re welcome!

  34. Jenny

    July 28, 2014 at 8:39 am

    Love all the photos! Great job mama!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:27 pm

      Thank you Jenny!

  35. Hibbat

    July 30, 2014 at 11:51 am

    I am looking to buy a new camera and these pictures look great. Love the post and pics. Will definitely look into getting this camera!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:27 pm

      Please do Hibbat, and thank you!

  36. Eva Mitton-Urban

    July 31, 2014 at 1:13 pm

    Beautiful cascading water on rocks photo – don’t think a professional could do much better. Certainly beats the photos taken on my LG Android phone. Not a camera buff in any way but never too old to learn – have a 10 year old son and 1000 of more photo and memories shots to take. Fantastic giveaways Lena, if fortunate to win I will post pic of my Da Vinci. Thanks.

    Eva Mitton-Urban

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:29 pm

      You’re right Eva – it’s never to late to learn!

  37. Christine

    July 31, 2014 at 9:23 pm

    Wow! I have always wanted to learn more about photography. Great post!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:29 pm

      Thanks Christine!

  38. Lyn

    July 31, 2014 at 10:16 pm

    Beautiful photos!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:29 pm

      Thank you Lyn :)

  39. Rob Brydon

    July 31, 2014 at 11:08 pm

    Lena, you’ve taken some very memorable photos with this camera. You’ve passed on a number of great tips too!! Great photo of your son enjoying his ice cream…you know it’s good when it get on your nose. :) Thanks for the blog.

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:29 pm

      Your comment made me smile, thanks Rob!

  40. Jolee

    August 1, 2014 at 8:39 am

    All the photos are great and kudos for learning how to use your camera!

    • Lena

      August 1, 2014 at 6:29 pm

      Thank you Jolee!

  41. Stephanie LaPlante

    August 6, 2014 at 9:53 am

    Those pictures are beautiful.

    • Lena

      September 7, 2014 at 5:38 pm

      Thank you Stephanie!

  42. Debbie White Beattie

    February 15, 2017 at 11:29 pm

    You’ve got great pictures here and I bet the camera is amazing but the photographer has something to do with it to.

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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