Auto Mode vs Manual Mode.

Which do you like better? Maybe a better question is, can you tell they are almost the same picture? I mean, I'm standing in the same place, taking the picture of the same scene with the same phone, but how are they so different? 

Well, it's the camera settings. On my Samsung, there is a "Pro" mode where I can adjust the same settings I would adjust on my camera. Yes, your right, I can't adjust aperture on my phone, (more on that in a later discussion,) but I can adjust the shutter speed, ISO and white balance. So regardless of which photo you like better, see how each photo has its own positives and negatives. Being able to take full control of your camera offers near unlimited possibilities with your photography. It's OK if you're not ready for this jump, but maybe you are at a place where you are trying to get more out of your photography. Whether you're shooting senior portraits, sports or quinceañeras, you can develop a special look, in camera, with less editing. You can take more control of your photos by taking more control of your camera. You can get out of auto mode and start experimenting in manual mode. 

We can go into specifics of all of this stuff later, but for now, take some time to switch over to manual mode and experiment with shutter speed, ISO, aperture and white balance. Don't worry, you can change right back to auto mode any time. Don't be afraid to try new settings. Some of my favorite photos were "happy accidents."

Have some fun. Let me know how it's going. 

-JAY