The Nikon D200 (and I believe the D70) has an Auto ISO feature. The feature basically has the camera choose the lowest ISO setting possible to achieve proper exposure under the given light conditions. It chooses ISO in 1/6 of a stop increments. It allows the user to set a minimum shutter speed to be used as well as maximum ISO. I use it in Aperture Priority and set a minimum shutter speed appropriate for the subject matter (normally wildlife). I recently asked a pro a question on another site about using this feature and he stated that he would never use it and knew of no pros who did use it. I know some pros who do use Auto ISO but am curious why one would not use such a feature. Can someone explain the negatives of this feature to me?
I think there's a great misconception of what constitutes a "pro". Pros are simply those who make the bulk of their income from photography, and they can do so in any number of ways. If anything they are more driven to get the image rather than walk away and try again later (in other words - anything that can increase the chances of a successful image is probably something a pro will consider).
The only down side I can think of to this feature is that it may push the ISO too high and result in noisy images, but if the alternative is to not get the image at all, then for many it may well be a risk worth taking.
Personally I do not use this feature becuase of the situation. Mostly I am shooting landscapes, and using a tripod, which will acomidate almost any slow shutter. However there have been a few times recently where I have needed to use a higher ISO, and even a few times when I forogt to change the ISO. We all hopefully learn from our mistakes.
For me I think it comes down to the old addage of being in total control of the entire image process. In fact I rarely use aperture or shutter priority, however there are exceptions to the rule. I think it's all just personal choice, not a matter of Pro versus amateur or Serious Hobbiest. In my book the only difference between a pro and non pro is either attitude or $1.00. That's it. A Pro should have a profesional attitude and not talk down to anyone about their choices.
I consider myself a Professional Control Freak Photographer!
Discussion
3 repliesThe only down side I can think of to this feature is that it may push the ISO too high and result in noisy images, but if the alternative is to not get the image at all, then for many it may well be a risk worth taking.
Guy
Just my .02
I consider myself a Professional Control Freak Photographer!