Shooting in Automatic Mode

When you’re first learning to shoot, it’s important to go out and use the camera.  There is no substitute for holding the camera and pressing the buttons.  And don’t worry about messing up the camera, beyond dropping it there isn’t much you can do to mess it up.  So, let’s get the camera set to shoot in full Automatic Mode—which puts the camera in control of the exposure decisions.

Step 1: Move the dial to Full Automatic

For most models of cameras, this mode is designated by an A letter.  On the Canon T6i, this is also designated by the green color.

Step 2: Set the lens to Autofocus

Using the Canon 18-135mm lens, these controls are found directly on the lens.  For other camera/lens combinations, the auto focus controls may be found on the lens or the camera body, or both depending on the model.

Step 3: Set the image quality to RAW

On a Canon Rebel T6i, click the menu button and move to Image Quality.  For different cameras, check the camera documentation to determine how to set this mode.