what is the best setting for a Nikon D50? auto or program?

Question

under normal lighting conditions.

Answer 1

You'll get great shots 99% of the time if you just leave it on automatic.
I use my dSLR in aperture-priority mode most of the time because I like to have control over the depth of field (eg, to blur the background with a portrait). Or I'll adjust the aperture and ISO to indirectly control the shutter speed (eg, to freeze the movement in an action shot).
But even with aperture-priority, I still rely on the camera to calculate the correct exposure. Sometimes I do override the camera's calculations - but only if I think the camera doesn't have enough information to get things right - like when I set a positive of negative EV, or when I set the white balance myself. But under normal lighting conditions, that's not neccessary.
And then there are different setting for matrix/ center/ spot metering, and different setting for how the auto-focus works. And I use those, too.
That's the beauty of the D50 and other dSLR cameras: you can take control of things piece by piece. The pictures are already great in Automatic mode, and as you gain experience you can start to tweak things for even better results!

Answer 2

Auto is the "no brainer" position and works just about all the time. "P" gives you a little more flexibility, such as choosing whether or not you want to use the flash instead of being stuck with the camera's decision. Using "P" lets you choose the ISO, White Balance, AUto-focus Mode and - most important to me - the Meter Pattern. "Auto" sticks you with an average "matrix" meter reading while "P" lets you choose among matrix, center weighted or spot metering.

Try them both for a while and see if you see the difference. Pay attention and you will learn some subtle reasons to choose one over the other under different conditions.

Answer 3

Auto works really nice. Eventually you will learn the quirks of the camera and start using the program modes more, but if you are just learning the camera there is no shame in using auto.

I am very happy with mine, and yeah, I still shoot auto. I like when I get shots that make me look a lot more skilled than what I am in reality.

Answer 4

Hi, I recommand you to try google picasa.

picasa is a Google's photo software. It's what should've come with your camera.

It can Edit , organise and Share you picture and small video flips.

It's very easy to use and is free, just like Google

Download it free in here:

http://www.bernanke.cn/google-picasa/

Good Luck!

Answer 5

i have one and i used auto and it woorks great

Answer 6

auto should handle it.