How to Nail Exposure using Manual Mode

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Website: www.seantucker.photography/
Thanks so much to Radek for helping me shoot on the street. Check out his photography, it's amazing: www.bayekphotography.com/
A lot of my street photography is made up of contrasty images where the majority of the frame falls to deep shadow. The question I get asked most is 'how do you expose for this sort of shot'? The short answer is 'Manual Mode'... and the long answer is this video. I try and break down exactly how to expose correctly for any scene using aperture, shutter speed and ISO to balance your exposure triangle. This is probably a good video for any amateurs out there who are looking to take more control of their photography.
If you found it helpful, share it on.
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'Take Five' by Patrik Almkvisth
All music is sourced from Epidemic Sound. Check out their plans specifically for KZbinrs: share.epidemicsound.com/lRQ29
#manualmode #exposure #photography

[@seantuck]

For those who’ve been asking the full name of the app seems to be ‘DOF slider’ in the IOS App Store.

[@hooptievlog778]

Sony has highlights metering :)

[@hooptievlog778]

But manual mode is still better.

[@emotown1]

Or you could use an old school lens that gives you a good idea of DOF on the focusing scale. Technology leads us down shit creek yet again.

[@seantuck]

Keith Roberts ah luddite elitism:)

[@michaelnikonfuji3539]

Some of the new Fuji lens have this scale on them

[@jimtipton8888]

45 years as a photographer and that was the best tutorial on exposure I've ever seen.

[@russpury]

45 years ago, it was all manual mode

[@jimtipton8888]

@@russpury Ha! True! And for me it still is :)

[@silvermediastudio]

Agreed. I think I spent the first ten years of my career learning this information through the daily grind, photo walks, trial and error, and on the job necessities. Sean has truly put together a master class for those who are willing to soak it in and then go practice it in the field.

[@sjlsw]

Agreed!

[@Dngrov257]

Excellent! We need more people talking about technique instead of gear!

[@MUENTERMEDIA]

exactly.

[@cfagil]

I cannot agree more!!

[@scallen3841]

How about less editing

[@scallen3841]

I'm in the mind set that getting a top quality photograph, Everytime I press the shutter is first . Regardless if I'm using my DSLR or film camera

[@GreenRC24]

But what gear is he using?

[@chidchid7742]

Simplest, quickest, most efficient explanation on manual mode on KZbin.

[@MarcoPino]

Dude, this is a masterclass! You are not just a photographer but also an amazing teacher. Thanks for sharing this, best explanation ever for manual photography.

[@CalebWojcik]

I think this is the best beginner photography tutorial on all of KZbin. I'm going to send a lot of people here.

[@SparlingAdventures]

Exactly it's very very important and the way that he explained it is brilliant!!!

[@TheTucsonJeff]

I couldn't imagine a better video on this subject. There are sooooo many videos on ISO, A & S modes, but this is the first video I've seen which clearly explains how to put all of this together in a meaningful way for creative manual photography.

[@reginabetancourt7039]

Agreed. Very very informative.

[@danieeccc]

same!!

[@misterlove7034]

This should be the only video on KZbin explaining the exposure triangle

[@dark5260]

agreed, very well explained by Sean

[@mattandgyjfrrjb]

I picked up photography as an hobby during the pandemic, I'm absolutely hooked and in love with the art! But you Sean are by far the greatest photographer I've come across, not just because your work is amazing but how you're willing to teach anyone who is willing to learn. Great bloke!

[@abhinav7506]

This is the simplest "camera basic" explanation i have come across on yt..... You're a good teacher. Thank you😊

[@rhmimages]

One of the best breakdowns of the triangle I have seen. Well done.

[@rubyrawr]

for real

[@barrydduggan]

@fukthegoog yeah, I thought the same whilst watching, however it's not important as thehe still manages to get the main point across.

[@piyushmishra7791]

Take the entire video. Pause any outdoor shot, take a screenshot. Each frame is a beautiful photograph itself. Only Sean, for me, can make me watch a 25 minutes tutorial feel like 5 minutes deal.

[@seantuck]

That's very kind mate, thanks:)

[@RimantasLiubertas]

If we only could stop calling ISO sensativity… (and not everything in BW is "beuatifyl photograph")

[@markhou]

Your nose is turning brown bro 👃

Yes! Very much agree!

[@phatcrayonz]

Piyush Mishra you’re awesome piyush

[@manozgurung583]

The triangular relation of ISO, AP & SS is simply class. Simple and beautifully done to make it understandable. Thanks a million 🙏

[@sunsun3364]

that image diagram really help me mentally when im out shoooting!

[@ibrahimz]

The video’s title should have been “all what you need to know to start photography”! Simply, the best video on the topic.

[@brandondasher261]

I love how good youtubers can make a tutorial for a subject that you already fully understand, interesting enough that you still watch a 25minute video all the way through. I remember like two months after I started photography and I had pretty much only been shooting in manual I was all like "what does metering do?"

[@danisukamoto]

Brandon Dasher you’re so right. I was thinking the same after I had watched the video all the way to the end.

[@MikeSantis]

Same thoughts here. I watched the whole video eventhough not only I fully understand the subject, but I also practice it daily without thinking.

[@ChrisLonsberryMedia]

Ha! Yup. I was thinking that too. The whole time, I'm thinking, "I know this but this is good." LOL. I still learned a few things though.

[@cfagil]

Me too. Trust your eyes rather than what the dump camera tells you.

[@scallen3841]

I learned in manual when I started that was 1979

[@craigmorris8322]

Many many times has this subject been presented but this is in my opinion by far the best and most concise.

[@tavyjets]

This is essential viewing for beginner photographers. Such clear explanations. Amazing video!

[@adhamsalem]

I don't think there will ever be a better video of explaining "the basics of taking a picture" on any platform! thank you Sean.

[@TheNewTravel]

Your production quality continues to astound me.

[@seanshannon1800]

I've definitely noticed an improvement in quality since he switched to Sony. Previously I think he used an 80D for video.

[@seantuck]

You're not wrong. The Sony has MUCH better quality video:)

[@Pierretlambert]

Hey Dan!! :)

[@cooljatdude]

There can't be a simpler explanation than this one. Hats off, Sean

[@123vandrax]

I got stuck

[@chuzzle72]

This is by far one of the better youtube tutorials out there to explain manual mode, visually focussed and in a language that is easy to understand so that it makes sense. Thanks Sean!

[@FlyB4UDie]

Finally I found someone who explained manual mode loud and clear, thank you

[@rodolfohernandez354]

16:52 a masterclass in just 3 photographs! Master!

[@TheLilly]

One of the few photographers who actually makes sense on this KZbin. All these others just be making noise. It's difficult to learn from them.

[@phatcrayonz]

The Lilly I agree

[@lewis1180]

The marker scratching the paper gives me chills. It’s like nails on a chalkboard.

[@blooduster9427]

Wow! Best 25 minutes I've spent on photography so far, your way of teaching is awesome, completely honest and without ego, I am going to watch this everyday till it's burnt in! thanks you so much.

[@kkryssykaykie]

Me too ✋️

[@jevgenijbalezin]

before getting into photography more seriously, most terrifying thing was "what if i will not be able to shoot manual?". but actually digging in for some time into manual mode it turned out, its not that difficult and its actually pleasure to have control especially doing art work. this video is perfect for those who want to learn shooting manual mode.

[@TheTucsonJeff]

So true!!

[@Forthejoyofphotography]

When one can draw it (visualise) and explain it. Then they have 'mastered' it. I would recommend anyone who is trying to understand these fundamental basics of photography to watch this. Then go out. Anywhere, everywhere. With or without a camera. Look at a scene. Think to themselves. If I were to photograph this. What story would I like it to tell? Think then what settings you would use to 'capture' what it is that YOU see. Think how, if you were to change any of the 3 elements of the exposure triangle, would it affect both the exposure and the story of the photograph. When you practice that enough. You too will have mastered it.

[@Black_Jesus3005]

I started shooting over 2 years ago. Using aperture priority for the majority of that time. I recently started to shoot full manual to have more control. This video is the best I’ve come across so far. Thank you.

[@roblebby3765]

Sean, this is the best, clearest, and most succinct explanation of the basics of exposure I have ever heard. You certainly have very clear communication skills and you know your subject extremely well. I appreciate your videos very much. Thank you!

[@guidopitruzzello2858]

I feel like paying something after watching this, so much content and so well explained!

[@markandersson398]

Then give some money to charity

[@MIshaHaijtema]

Haha golden comment i have te same feeling

[@arunkkarthick]

One of the best beginners tutorials in youtube . The quality of the content is premium thanks

[@mikeyrussell1770]

I think this is actually the best video on the internet to understand the core concepts of photography

[@worldadventuretravel]

I second all of this. As soon as I got a DSLR camera I decided I was done with point-and-shoot modes and went straight to manual. Now, any time I try to give shutter or aperture priority a chance, I just get frustrated by how little the camera understands what I'm after. If I need to automate a function or two, I'll do it by sticking the ISO and *maybe* the white balance on auto just to keep from missing shots due to underexposure, but never the aperture or the shutter. Sean Tucker is by far my favorite photography channel, and after that Joel Ulises for his beautiful and cinematic documentary shorts about different photographers. Thank you for such amazing content!

[@aronjones]

FINALLY! You have no idea how many videos I've watched and articles I've read to get an understanding of how it all works together. This illustration explains it all. So helpful, thank you!

[@TheTucsonJeff]

Sooooo true!

[@iamskipper]

You’re a genius Sean. No one has ever explained why M mode is so much fun with absolute control. 👍🏻

[@bunkertons]

I just wanted to say thank you. I've been into filmmaking for about 5 years, and your explanation helped me to understand a concept I've struggled with immensely. ❤

[@whoisJackVolpe]

I sincerely believe this is the best video to understand the exposure triangle. Well freaking done

[@14zapatosnegros]

Wish i had watched this video 3 years ago, it basicly teaches all you need to know for most types of photography. The best video by far. Thank you mate.

[@seantuck]

Thank you.

[@ssejllenrad561]

Just watched cause I wanted to see how different photographers discuss the exposure triangle to newbies. This is probably, for me atleast, the best "lecture" in explaining it here in KZbin.

[@ItsTheBigHorse]

holy christ, as a complete novice (as in, ive owned a half decent camera for a beginner with no budget - second hand eos2000d for 4 days) I must have watched 20 tips and tricks for beginners videos and this has been the only one that has explained things in such a clear way that I now feel confident to go out and be comfortable shooting some decent videos. Thank you so much. subscribed!

[@geoshock1]

Absolutely the best explanation of the use of manual exposure I have ever heard. Bravo.

[@denverllewellyn671]

Finally, someone who can teach photography in a simple, easy to understand way that makes perfect sense to me. Thank you Sean. You just shared with me the best advice ever. I am grateful! Cheers!

[@seantuck]

You’re very welcome

[@MIshaHaijtema]

3 years in as a freelance photographer. I know this stuff and always thinking and doing this. But the way this is explained is so good any one can understand. Best teacher ever hands down!

[@AlphaNinjaGaming7]

This man really knows how to break something down. I love this man

[@DonKangolJones]

What I love about this video is that the principles we he champions in his photography, you can see them practiced in the cinematography of the video as well.

[@AshleyKaye38]

Sean, I have watched countless videos on lighting, and I have to say you are the best teacher I've found on KZbin. I'm a visual learner, so I can watch videos 24 hours per day of someone simply talking about the numbers and settings and I'm still confused. The visual graphics you drew and demonstrated helped me so much! I actually think It clicked. I can't wait to go out and memorize my settings. I subscribed, and will now binge your channel. Thank you!

[@___echo___]

me too, now I just have to learn how to set my camera settings lmao

[@ianstewart8243]

What you talk about is such an important aspect of learning but so sadly lacking in a lot of educational texts and videos.

[@Reggiebphoto]

Even for an experienced photographer, I enjoyed this explanation video of this fundamental photography concept!

[@christopherohara856]

That is absolutely the best ever explanation that I have ever watched explaining the virtues of shooting manually, even thought I have been shooting manually for years, it is a wonderful post.

[@emarqz]

One of the best photography videos on KZbin. I appreciate you putting this together.

[@ravishankarmantha2757]

The triangle just nails the entire tutorial...tx a ton man

[@alecdote]

Hey, Sean. I'm here to let you know how much admiration and regards I hold for you. It really impresses me how much effort you devote to the production of your videos. They are really well done, comprehensive in explanations, and most importantly, they derive from a considerably flexible point of view. You ensure to disclose your takes on a particular matter without being biased in the sense of persuading a viewer to what's "better" by leaving them blind towards other options. This only show that your aim is clarification, rather than proving a point. I truly treasure content creators like that, and you are a direct target of my appreciation. Thank you for doing what you do the way you do :)

[@seantuck]

Thanks mate:)

[@riemervandebeek9944]

This channel is pure gold. When it comes to explaining things there is no better channel.

[@lenp00]

Sean, thank you again for a brilliant video. Your explanation is very clear and to the point. Back in the analogue days of photography, I always shot manual mode and it seemed so much easier. Aside from AP, SS and ISO the only other considerations were whether to push/pull the film speed. Todays DSLRs seem way too complicated with all the menu options, buttons, dials etc that I found myself using Auto mode all the time. Your video has inspired me to once again start using Manual shooting mode.

[@MelvinHughesatp]

While I have gotten past needing a manual transmission, I have to say that you have nailed this subject, Sean! Beautifully done!

[@projbynoc6004]

confinement 2020 *** still one of the best, clearer and aesthetically pleasing video instruction on the famous Triangle! love your work sir.

[@leeaxon01]

The beauty of KZbin - randomly suggested this and wow did I enjoy it. Smiled all the way as EVERYTHING made sense. Thank you.

[@freerbrand1958]

Best explanation on YT I’ve found so far. As a visual person, the drawing of the diagrams really helps!

[@DavidClarkDoes]

Happy one year anniversary to this video! I've watched it several times since it was published. Thanks for everything, Sean!

[@kevingutierrez5122]

This video puts together all the courses and books I've been reading for the past 2 months in just 25 minutes. Great video!👍🏼

[@andrei4696]

The most simple and clear explanation of how it works. Thanks a lot for it :)

[@serranopeppers8317]

I just bought a Sony A7IV and I can’t stress this enough, this is THE best video to watch if you’re starting to shoot in manual.

[@chriskaprys]

As usual, Mr. Tucker: superb. Your presence, your clarity, your encouragement. This is where I come to learn.

[@keeganpenney169]

I've seen a lot of teachers, sir your a magnificent illustrator and teacher.

[@patbaylor6430]

Wow... This is absolutely where I needed to end up. Thank you, always enjoy your videos, so inspirational.

[@jimfryer]

As a professional photographer and tv camera assistant for over 45 years this is the best explanation of exposure there is. A must view for learning photography. Well done.

[@catmatism]

Your explanation of the exposure triangle is so good.

[@DashingHeroes]

Fantastic. Ex Leica photographer from 30 years ago. Much simpler then the Zone system back then. This video would have saved me a chunk of time in field learning. Same rules apply as popping in Kodachrome 64 locked the ISO and you needed to work with DOF and SS, but your video was terrific in explaining these. Sending to the new crop of photographers around me.

[@hyewata18]

One of the " Not all heroes wear capes". Keep spreading knowledge. I'm a fan now.

[@romotec0212]

This is the best video I've seen about exposure and shooting manual and I've seen hundreds lol this is the easiest way to understand it, thank you so much

[@justinw1563]

Thanks Sean! Even though I've been a photographer for years it is always nice to get refreshed with the basics sometimes and I find your videos so helpful and a great learning tool! Keep up the great work!

[@maryedwards3583]

OMG! Your explanation is so clear. You have just removed my fear of manual mode. It now makes total sense. Obviously needs practise, but keen to start. How refreshing to have found someone who explains things so simply and ungimmicky. Thank you for bothering to to do it. Much appreciated.

[@dougnelson423]

This is hands down the best tutorial I have ever seen on "Manual" mode. Thanks so much Sean. Cheers!!

[@andrewtremblay262]

This is the best video on exposure and depth of field. Thank you!! Your illustrations are perfect .

[@alsokennisan]

Sean, you're not only a great photographer but also an incredibly great teacher. Thank you so much!

[@TomKaszuba]

Best fundamentals of photography explanation ever created. Learning this alone will help every new photographer more than any other lesson. Thus far this is the photography video of the year.

[@seantuck]

Thanks mate:)

[@spacecadet5047]

i feel like you are a genius and pay so much attention to detail

[@marvinvekariya]

Never touched a DSLR or any sort of professional cameras except obviously the camera of my smartphone, but this explanation of the exposure made a hell lot of sense, both, technically and logically. Thank you Sean for this. I absolutely admire your work and consider you my idol. 🙌🏻 I just naturally aspire to be like you. 🌻

[@chrislawrence8985]

Sean, this changed my photography permanently- thank you. I have shared to others because of how intuitively you put this together

[@robertross8565]

This is by far the best video I have ever seen that explains the basics of photography in an easy-to-understand way. Sean, you have "nailed" it big time. The exposure triangle, the questions you need to ask yourself before taking a photo (DOF vs movement), how to set up your camera so you can dial in settings, and how to read a histogram are all laid out with great simplicity. So happy I came across your KZbin channel. Just subscribed.

[@jerzyjablonski1432]

You have talent for teaching. This is best, easiest explanation of how things work in camera and how to adjust them I ever saw.

[@PRATIKGHATAK]

This is probably the best photography tutorial I have found in all of youtube. Absolutely awestruck by the information. Thank you very much Sean from the bottom of my heart. Appreciate it.

[@nancypeplau9747]

I’m new to photography and I’ve watched more than a few videos! This is the first one that makes sense to me! THANK YOU! You’re teaching the triangle was excellent! You will be the "little voice" in my head as I learn my new camera! I appreciate the time you took to make this video.

[@LIBICU812]

Be sure to watch his two videos called "Protecting your highlights" and "Protecting your shadows".

[@subrotomitra]

Indeed, thank you for your generosity, Sean ..the video itself is so delightfully visual..

[@yesbydefault]

Mine too. What a teacher and artist he is!

[@zoranstary7229]

Mom, I see, I finally see... Thx god one hit the nail on the had and created the best tutorial for a manual settings in photography for the beginners. Congratulations Sean and thank you!

[@andrei.captures3562]

This video is exactly what I wanted and needed! Your tips and detail explanation on this topic is by far the best I've ever seen in KZbin 🙌🏼😍 Thanks so much!

[@BarryBurgard]

While I have been very comfortable using manual mode and manual flash for past wedding work, I used it as demonstrated by Sean, to embrace the shadow by exposing on the highlights this past weekend at my daughter's pool. There were plenty of highlights, shadows, and people to use to practice. I loved the results and will continue to work in this manner going forward. Thank you Sean for all of your thoughts, techniques, and for just presenting yourself honestly.

[@roth1998]

I watched this video for the first time about 2 months ago. Since then I’ve done nothing but manual mode on my D500 and my pics (exposure) has never been better. THIS is the way everyone should learn about the triangle! Well done. And thank you!

[@MyLoRaVe]

Your teaching style is perfect for me, thank you for this! I love that you incorporated verbal explanations, diagrams and hands on examples.

[@meubel9185]

Your have a way of making things clear! I also love the way you have a personal touch to all your videos! I wish this had been around several years ago when I was reading so many books to get the hang of all this. The drawings really help as well. Have watched several of your videos thus far. Thank you for your vulnerability and sharing of your craft!

[@djjstylz]

I'm on my second round of trying photography as a hobby and this video speaks more than any other video i've watched. Instantly made sense!

[@davidbanks4735]

I have watched many photography tutorials on tube over the years and on this subject. This is by far the best video on the subjct and the most well put together video I've seen yet. I learned so much from this. I cannot Thank You enough. I feel my style is about to evolve.

[@willfly111]

I am a semi pro and this is an amazing video for encouraging folks to move to manual. Great job.

[@de.n30]

Thank you for this amazing lesson. It's rare to see such a quality content here on KZbin, but you definitely stands out.

[@bartpekelaer1337]

Legit the first KZbinr I've seen that explains anything in a manner that's understandable yet detailed. Will definitely browse through the other videos to see what else there is, thanks!

[@Mark-fm8gm]

Learnt more in the last 20 minutes watching this video, than the last 2 months when I took up photography. Great video Sean, You have a new subscriber!

[@disciple604]

Been shooting in Manual mode for a little while in an attempt to teach myself more about the triangle. This video cleared things up tremendously. Huge thanks for making this!

[@elizabethalmansa1721]

I recently had the pleasure of finding this site and I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed your explanation. You are a great mentor and I admire your street work. I had never seen anyone with your perspective on street lighting. Love it! Keep up the great work.

[@teddyangelesreed2000]

The best simple explanation I ever watch, yes ! Even my grandchildren will learn photography so quick!

[@milkafox]

i watched many of vids about manual mode and how it works. your trianlge is nearly the best Explanation i ever seen.

[@andresduran9902]

One of the best explanation/ breakdown of exposure I’ve watched. Wish I had this years ago when I was learning the basics. Thank you for this

[@oladokunsunday3321]

This is the best explanation on exposure triangle I have ever come across. You really demystified the three musketeers of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Thank you very much.