From Amateur to Pro: Mastering the Art of Switching from Viewfinder to Screen on Canon 70D

Switching from the traditional viewfinder to the live view screen on your Canon 70D can be a game-changer for certain types of photography. Whether you’re shooting macro, landscapes, or even trying out new angles, utilizing the screen offers a unique perspective and opens up a world of creative possibilities. This guide will walk you through the process of transitioning from the viewfinder to the screen, helping you confidently capture stunning images in a whole new way.

Familiarizing Yourself with the Live View Mode

Before diving into specific techniques, it’s crucial to understand the basics of Live View mode on your Canon 70D. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Activating Live View: Simply press the Live View button located on the back of your camera. The screen will come alive, displaying a live preview of what your lens sees.
• Focusing: While in Live View, you have two primary focusing options:
• Contrast Detect AF: This method uses the contrast of the scene to determine focus, which can be slower than phase detection but works well in low light.
• Touch AF: If your 70D supports it, you can simply touch the screen where you want to focus. This is incredibly intuitive and fast.
• Exposure Settings: All the usual exposure settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are still accessible through the menus or the control dial.
• Magnification: You can magnify the image on the screen to check focus more precisely, especially helpful for macro photography.

Why Switch to Screen?

So, why would you choose to shoot with the screen instead of the viewfinder? Here are some compelling reasons:

• Macro Photography: When focusing on tiny subjects, the viewfinder can be difficult to use. The screen allows you to see the subject clearly, making it easier to achieve precise focus.
• Low-Angle Shots: Shooting from unusual angles, such as close to the ground, can be awkward with the viewfinder. The screen provides a clear and comfortable view, even when your camera is positioned unnaturally.
• Live Composition: You can see exactly how your final image will look before taking the shot, allowing you to fine-tune composition and adjust settings in real-time.
• Video Recording: The screen is essential for recording video, allowing you to frame your shots and monitor your subject.
• Remote Shooting: The screen can be used for remote shooting with a wireless remote or your smartphone. This is perfect for capturing wildlife or time-lapses without disturbing the scene.

Adjusting to Shooting with the Screen

While the screen offers many advantages, it also presents a few challenges that you’ll need to adapt to:

• Focusing Speed: Contrast Detect AF can be slower than the phase detection system used in the viewfinder, especially in low light. This may require you to be more patient and deliberate with your focusing.
• Screen Brightness: The screen can be distracting in bright sunlight, making it harder to see the image clearly. Consider using a lens hood or a screen protector to minimize glare.
• Battery Life: Live View mode uses more battery power than shooting through the viewfinder. Make sure you have a charged battery before heading out for a long shoot.

Getting the Most Out of Live View

Here are a few tips to help you master shooting with the screen on your Canon 70D:

• Use a Tripod: When shooting in Live View, a tripod is essential for achieving sharp images. The camera’s stability will help you avoid camera shake and ensure accurate focus.
• Take Advantage of Touch AF: If your 70D supports it, touch focusing is a game-changer. Simply tap the screen on your subject, and the camera will automatically focus.
• Use the Magnification Feature: When you need precise focus, use the magnification feature to zoom in on your subject and make sure everything is sharp.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The best way to get comfortable with shooting in Live View is to practice. Experiment with different settings and techniques to find what works best for you.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Live View Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can explore some more advanced techniques to enhance your photography:

• Live View Bracketing: Use Live View to create bracketing sequences for HDR photography or focus stacking.
• Live View Timer: Set a timer for self-portraits or to capture images with a delayed shutter release.
• Live View Remote Control: Use a wireless remote or your smartphone to control your camera remotely, perfect for capturing wildlife or time-lapses.

Embracing the Screen: A New World of Photography

Switching from viewfinder to screen on your Canon 70D opens up a whole new world of photographic possibilities. While it may take some time to adjust, the benefits of Live View mode are undeniable. With practice and patience, you’ll learn to utilize the screen to capture stunning images in ways you never thought possible.

What People Want to Know

Q: Is Live View mode suitable for all types of photography?
A: While Live View offers many advantages, it’s not ideal for every situation. For fast-action photography, the viewfinder is still the preferred option due to its faster focusing speed.
Q: How do I choose between Contrast Detect AF and Touch AF?
A: Touch AF is generally faster and more intuitive, but it may not always be accurate in low-light conditions. Contrast Detect AF is more reliable in low light but slower. Experiment with both to see which works best for you.
Q: Can I use Live View for shooting video?
A: Yes, the screen is essential for recording video on your Canon 70D. You can use it to frame your shots, adjust settings, and monitor your subject.
Q: Will using Live View drain my battery faster?
A: Yes, Live View mode uses more battery power than shooting through the viewfinder. Make sure you have a charged battery, or consider using an external battery pack.
Q: What are some good resources for learning more about Live View photography?
A: You can find plenty of tutorials and articles online, as well as videos on YouTube. Canon’s website also provides helpful resources for using Live View mode on your 70D.