Exposure is the compilation of Aperture, ISO, and Shutter Speed. These objects will control how the photo will look. Exposure is what makes the good picture great without the modifications from software.

The good or correct Exposure will capture the overall tonal range of the picture. The more complex the subject makes it harder for the camera to calculate the correct exposure. The camera settings and the meter can be fooled by the overall lighting of the scene.

1. Get familiar with the camera’s light meter: The light meter built in to your digital camera can be remarkably accurate most of the time. Test your exposures and look them over. Try different readings or settings to see if the photo changes.
2. Look over your exposures on the LCD panel: With the new digital cameras you can now look over the photos using the LCD Panel. With this ability you can preview your exposures immediately. The LCD is not foolproof but will give you a decent look at your photos. This may also give you the options to reset and try the shot again.
3. Use the Camera in manual mode: Experiment with the camera by adjusting the Shutter Speed and opening and closing the aperture. Set up the ISO on the camera for the type of light you are working in.

Whether you have a Point and Shoot or a Digital SLR, you will need to practice and experiment with the camera’s automatic and manual settings. The more the camera is used, the better the picture will be.