Portrait Mode is normally used for…??? Portraits, of course. The camera assumes your subject is up close and fills most of the viewfinder.

I can’t emphasize enough how critical it is that you learn to manually adjust the settings on your camera. If you’re a rookie or absolutely MUST snap a portrait now, you can use the Portrait Mode. If the picture can wait 10 seconds, manually adjust the ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.

If you haven’t already done so, be sure to read our page on Autoexposure Modes.

Receive a free Certificate of Completion for this photography course. Pass a 40-question test on this course with a score of 70 or higher and receive a certificate of completion. Visit our Basics of Digital Photography Certificate of Completion page for more information.