What To Know
- One of the key aspects of photography that the 700D allows you to control is aperture, a critical element in determining the depth of field in your images.
- The exposure compensation button, typically located on the top of the camera, allows you to make quick adjustments to the aperture setting without entering the menu.
- A narrow aperture is often used in macro photography to ensure that the entire subject is in focus, from the tip of a flower petal to its delicate veins.
The Canon 700D is a fantastic camera for both beginners and seasoned photographers. One of the key aspects of photography that the 700D allows you to control is aperture, a critical element in determining the depth of field in your images. Knowing how to change aperture on Canon 700D empowers you to create stunning portraits with blurred backgrounds, capture sharp landscapes, or experiment with different creative effects. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with the knowledge to confidently adjust your aperture and unlock a new level of photographic control.
Understanding Aperture: The Gateway to Depth of Field
Aperture, essentially the size of the opening in your lens, plays a crucial role in controlling how much light reaches your camera’s sensor. It also dictates the depth of field, which refers to the area of your image that appears in focus. A wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light in, resulting in a shallower depth of field where the subject is sharp, while the background is blurred. A narrower aperture (higher f-number) restricts light, creating a greater depth of field where both the subject and background are in focus.
The Aperture Ring: Your Manual Control Center
For those who prefer the tactile experience of manual control, the Canon 700D offers an aperture ring on compatible lenses. This physical ring allows you to adjust the aperture directly by rotating it.
- Identifying the Aperture Ring: Locate the ring on your lens marked with f-stops (e.g., f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, etc.).
- Adjusting the Aperture: Rotate the ring to select the desired f-stop. A wider aperture will have a lower f-number, while a narrower aperture will have a higher f-number.
The Camera Menu: Digital Precision
The Canon 700D’s menu system provides a convenient and precise way to control aperture.
- Accessing the Menu: Press the “Menu” button on the back of the camera.
- Navigating to Aperture Settings: Use the navigation buttons to locate the “Shooting” or “Exposure” menu.
- Selecting Aperture-Priority Mode (Av): Choose the Av mode, which allows you to set the aperture while the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed for optimal exposure.
- Adjusting the Aperture: Use the dial or the arrow keys to select your desired f-stop.
The Exposure Compensation Button: Fine-Tuning Your Vision
The exposure compensation button, typically located on the top of the camera, allows you to make quick adjustments to the aperture setting without entering the menu.
- Pressing the Exposure Compensation Button: Press and hold the button.
- Adjusting the Aperture: Use the main dial to increase or decrease the aperture value. The camera will adjust the shutter speed accordingly to maintain proper exposure.
Aperture and Shutter Speed: A Balancing Act
Aperture and shutter speed work together to control the exposure of your photograph. A wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light in, requiring a faster shutter speed to compensate. Conversely, a narrower aperture (higher f-number) restricts light, necessitating a slower shutter speed. Understanding this relationship is crucial for achieving well-exposed images.
Creative Applications of Aperture
- Portrait Photography: A wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8 or f/4) creates a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and emphasizing your subject. This technique is ideal for capturing portraits with a soft, dreamy look.
- Landscape Photography: A narrow aperture (e.g., f/8 or f/11) provides a greater depth of field, ensuring that both foreground and background elements are sharp. This is perfect for capturing detailed landscapes with a sense of depth.
- Macro Photography: A narrow aperture is often used in macro photography to ensure that the entire subject is in focus, from the tip of a flower petal to its delicate veins.
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Art of Aperture
Knowing how to change aperture on Canon 700D is a fundamental skill that unlocks a world of creative possibilities. By understanding the relationship between aperture, depth of field, and exposure, you can confidently control the look and feel of your photographs. Experiment with different aperture settings, explore various shooting scenarios, and discover the unique ways that aperture can transform your images.
Answers to Your Questions
1. What is the best aperture setting for general photography?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on the subject and desired effect. For general photography, f/5.6 to f/8 is a good starting point, offering a balance between depth of field and sharpness.
2. Can I change the aperture on all Canon lenses?
No, not all Canon lenses have an aperture ring. Lenses with an aperture ring are typically older or more professional models.
3. How do I know which aperture to use for different subjects?
Experimentation is key! Start with a mid-range aperture and adjust based on the desired effect. For portraits, try a wider aperture. For landscapes, try a narrower aperture.
4. What is the difference between aperture and shutter speed?
Aperture controls the size of the lens opening, affecting depth of field and light intake. Shutter speed controls the duration of exposure, affecting motion blur and light intake.
5. Can I use aperture priority mode for all types of photography?
Aperture priority mode is highly versatile and ideal for various scenarios, but it may not be suitable for situations where precise shutter speed control is critical, such as capturing fast-moving subjects or achieving specific motion blur effects.
