If you’ve ever looked at the dial on your camera and felt confused by all the letters — Auto, P, AV, TV, M this episode of The Art of Childhood podcast is for you.
In this photography-focused episode, Courts breaks down the different camera modes in a simple, non-overwhelming way, especially for mamas learning how to photograph their kids and capture everyday moments more intentionally.
Why Camera Modes Matter When Photographing Your Kids
Many beginners start in Auto Mode, but quickly feel frustrated by blurry photos, harsh flash, or images that don’t reflect their style. In this episode, Courts explains why Auto Mode can feel limiting and how understanding camera modes helps you take more creative control of your photos.
Rather than diving deep into technical theory, this episode offers a bird’s-eye view of the most common camera modes and when you might choose each one.
A Quick Overview of the Main Camera Modes
The episode covers:
- Auto Mode – when the camera makes all the decisions
- Aperture Priority (AV / A) – great for soft, blurry backgrounds
- Shutter Priority (TV / S) – helpful for freezing or blurring motion
- Program Mode (P) – a step up from Auto with some flexibility
- Manual Mode (M) – full creative control
Courts also explains why some professional photographers choose semi-automatic modes, especially during family photography sessions.
A Gentler Way to Learn Photography
If manual mode feels intimidating, Courts encourages starting with a step-by-step approach, building confidence through practice and making mistakes along the way. She also shares a free Camera Baby Steps Guide for mamas wanting to begin with Aperture Priority Mode, as well as her Don’t Say Cheese Beginner Photography Course for Mamas for those ready to dive deeper.
Listen to the Full Episode
If you’re ready to feel more confident with your camera and stop guessing your settings, this episode will help you understand which camera mode might suit you best right now.
🎧 Listen to the full episode on The Art of Childhood podcast
Tune into the full episode on your preferred Podcast host:
Podcast Show Notes:
Camera Baby Steps Guide
Mamastalgia Photo Pledge
Beginner Photography Online Course for Mamas – “Don’t Say Cheese”:
Join the Mamastalgia Facebook Group
Courts’ Photography page
To learn more and grab freebies:
https://mamastalgia.co
Follow on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mamastalgia
The Art of Childhood is both hosted & produced by Courts (Mamastalgia and Blury Photography) and mixed & edited by Blury Audio – https://www.bluryaudio.com
