Adjusting focus in photography
Focus is one of the key creative tools in photography. It determines which details of the subject are in focus in the image and how clear and precise a photo appears. Modern cameras offer sophisticated autofocus systems for this purpose, but classic manual focusing aids continue to play an important role – especially in creative, analogue or specialised photography. In the early days of photography, this was done on the focusing screen, which is why a black cloth was attached to the back of the camera. This allowed the photographer to check the focus on the focusing screen with a magnifying glass.
Basics of exposure metering
Exposure metering is a fundamental technique in photography, regardless of whether you are working with analogue or digital cameras. While digital cameras provide support in the form of histograms and instant feedback, analogue photography requires a much more conscious and forward-thinking approach. Errors cannot be detected immediately, which is why precise metering is crucial.
Especially in extreme situations – such as strong backlighting or very high subject contrast – the camera's internal metering is often insufficient. This is where a handheld exposure meter often comes in handy.
The standard lens – defined by the angle of view, not by the focal length
In photography, the standard lens is considered one of the most important lenses of all. It is often described as ‘natural’ because its image effect is very close to human vision. However, there is one crucial point that is often misunderstood: a standard lens is not defined by a fixed focal length, but by its angle of view.
But it is precisely this human visual impression that makes it the perfect lens for beginners in photography. When looking through the viewfinder, you usually forget to check whether there is a better location. With the standard lens, you get used to working like an artist, first scanning the scene with the naked eye to set the scene for your subject.
Read more: The standard lens – defined by the angle of view, not by the focal length
The Zone System – Control over light and tonal values in photography
The zone system is a photographic concept developed to control exposure and development in such a way that a subject is reproduced with all the desired tonal values – from deep black to brilliant white. It was developed in the 1930s by Ansel Adams and Fred Archer and was mainly used in black-and-white photography.
Ansel Adams' photographs from Yosemite National Park. Hardly anyone knows how much effort Ansel Adams put into these photographs. He still used a view camera, which took a long time just to set up.
Read more: The Zone System – Control over light and tonal values in photography
Camera settings in digital photography – explained in detail
Digital photography now offers more creative possibilities than ever before. Although modern cameras work with automatic programmes, the basic camera settings remain crucial for image composition and quality. It is particularly important to understand the difference between RAW and JPEG images – because this determines which settings are critical at the time of shooting and which can be easily corrected later.
Read more: Camera settings in digital photography – explained in detail
