[Demo data — development only. Specifications are illustrative; editorial copy is sample content.]
Exposure is a balance of three settings: aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Change one and you must adjust another to keep the same brightness.
The trade-offs
- Aperture affects depth of field.
- Shutter speed affects motion blur.
- ISO affects noise.
Mastering the triangle is the single most important step from auto mode to full control.
M
Written by
Marcus ReidStaff Writer
Marcus writes about technique, education and the business of photography.
Last reviewed Jan 2025. Corrections policy.
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