Aperture: why bigger isn’t better
Aperture is a term that refers to how open your lens is. With aperture, the smaller the number, the larger the opening. The larger the opening, the more light that is let into the lens, subsequently the brighter/better exposed the photograph will be. I’m a beginner in terms of understanding aperture, shutter priority, program mode and full on manual mode, but I know the basics: smaller = more light; larger = less light. Generally you will notice that your shutter speed corresponds with your aperture setting. If you have your aperture set to f/ 2.8, for example, then your shutter will be pretty fast, since there’s plenty of exposure. But if you set your aperture to f/ 6 or even f/ 8, you’ll notice that the shutter speed decreases significantly. 
I prefer to shoot in aperture mode, though I’m having some issues when I do so outdoors and without the aid of a flash. A lot of the photos are horribly exposed, overly grainy, or both. I don’t mind experimenting and learning as I go, but it does suck to ruin what could otherwise be some truly fantastic photos.
How much do you know about aperture?
Filed Under: Tips