Lesson 1: P: Program AE

Why would we let the camera decide the shutter speed and f-stop?

In what situation would this be a good thing?

Shutter speed
Aperture/F stop
Iso
Mode dial
Program AE (Auto Exposure)

Anchor Standard 3: Refine and complete artistic work.
Anchor Standard 9: Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

Identifying explicitly stated information and ideas to apply to real-world experiences

Recognizing and correcting problems in camera settings

Students will critique and analyze the settings that the camera automatically chooses for Shutter Speed and Aperture when operating in Program AE mode. Students will understand the balance between camera automation and creative control, recognizing when to rely on the camera's algorithms and when to override them to achieve a specific fine art outcome.

This is a DOK level 4 skill. Critiquing and analyzing the camera’s automated choices requires students to synthesize their existing technical knowledge, evaluate a complex situation, and make informed, real-time creative adjustments..

When students study photography and become more adept at technical skills; they are more likely to grasp differences within a piece of artwork. Understanding Program AE allows students to analyze how camera manufacturers program standard exposure algorithms, challenging students to think about how "correct" exposure is defined technologically versus how it is interpreted across diverse, real-world artistic settings.

That the camera will always know more than the photographer (a belief that may start off as fact for beginners but will become false as the semester goes on).

That there will never be a practical real-world need or advantage for letting the camera automatically set the shutter speed or aperture.

Students will be given a modified assignment. And aided in the help of setting their camera.

• Students will complete at least one skill development assignment, as well as, one project. Portfolio will be submitted for assessment.

• Can the student critically evaluate why the camera chose a specific shutter speed and f-stop combination in Program AE mode?

• Do they demonstrate the ability to recognize exposure or creative errors made by the camera's automated system and accurately fix them?

• Each student will be provided with a DSLR camera.

• Presentation materials (Google Slides or technical information on Program AE mode).

• Classroom portfolio assignment materials (e.g., set up or location for black and white landscapes, with or without a red lens filter).