Photo Tips for NL

Question

I have a Canon T6i and always shoot in auto mode, no experience in manual mode. Will pics be decent in this setting using a tri-pod?

Answer

Shooting in auto mode on your Canon T6i can still yield decent photos in Newfoundland (NL), especially if you are using a tripod. The tripod will help stabilize your shots, which is particularly useful in low-light situations, like sunrise, sunset, or cloudy days common in NL.

Here are some key points to consider:

Auto mode will handle exposure, ISO, and shutter speed automatically. On a tripod, this minimizes blur from camera shake, but be aware that auto mode may still select higher ISO in low light, which can introduce noise in your photos.
For landscapes, make sure to use a tripod and enable the camera’s image stabilization off (if your lens has it), as stabilization isn’t needed on a tripod and can sometimes create slight blur.
Auto mode may struggle with bright contrasts, such as snow, fog, or scenes with reflections. You might notice overexposed highlights or underexposed shadows. Using exposure compensation (+/-) in auto mode can help correct this.

Additional tips for better results without using manual mode:

Use the camera’s “Landscape” or “Aperture Priority” mode if you feel comfortable exploring slightly beyond full auto. Aperture Priority allows control over depth of field while the camera sets shutter speed.
Shoot in RAW format if possible. Even in auto mode, RAW gives you more flexibility in post-processing to adjust exposure, color balance, and recover details in highlights or shadows.
Consider using a remote shutter release or the camera’s timer to avoid any shake when pressing the shutter button.
Pay attention to lighting—early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing colors in landscapes.

In summary, yes, your photos can be quite good using auto mode with a tripod, especially for landscapes. However, a few small adjustments and awareness of lighting conditions can greatly improve the overall quality.