How to Use an Automatic Camera

Automatic cameras make it easy to take quality photographs. And some give you the option to set the aperture and shutter speed manually for greater control over the image.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Automatic Cameras
• Camera Bags
• Camera Batteries
• Camera Straps
• Camera Tripod
• Film
• Light Meter

1. Open the back of the camera to begin loading the film.

2. Insert the film canister into the space on the left side of the camera. The film tab extending from the film canister will be on the upper side, nearest you.

3. Pull the film tab across the camera until it just curls over the spool on the opposite side.

4. Close the back of the camera. The film will automatically advance to the first frame.

5. Set the film speed dial on the top left of the camera.

6. Use the built-in light meter or a handheld meter to determine the shutter speed and aperture settings.

7. Adjust the controls - usually in the form of a dial with a digital display on the top left of the camera - to fully automatic, or select the aperture or shutter speed as desired if the camera allows for manual settings.

8. Choose a subject and adjust the zoom lens using a switch on the top right of the camera to frame the shot.

9. Push the shutter release on the top right of the camera to take a picture. The lens automatically focuses.

10. Wait until the film automatically advances before taking another shot.

11. Remove the film after the camera automatically rewinds it once you've shot the last frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the user's manual and acquaint yourself with your camera's settings.
• Look for a camera that gives the option to set the aperture and shutter speed manually for greater control over the image.
• Keep spare camera batteries with you.
• Some inexpensive automatic cameras don't require manual adjustments. All you do is load the film, point and shoot.

[mourgos]

on 6/26/2008 The author is obviously talking about an SLR camera; the author should have mentioned this fact. Otherwise, simple, basic info for the amateur.

on 11/22/2005 The viewfinder in many small automatic cameras doesn't frame correctly up close. You'll cut stuff off. Use the close framing lines in the viewfinders of these cameras.

on 11/22/2005 Most automatic (point and shoot) cameras don't have an adjustment for film speed. They read it off the film cannister automatically.

on 11/22/2005 If your subject is backlit, their face(s) will be dark unless the flash fires. Many auto cameras have an option to force the flash to fire. This tip works for subjects other than people, too.