Are you an amateur photographer looking to take your skills to the next level? Do camera settings and jargon confuse you? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Understanding camera settings can be intimidating for beginners, but it doesn’t have to be.

In this guide, we will demystify camera settings and break them down into easily understandable terms. Whether you are using a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a smartphone camera, this article will help you navigate the world of photography settings with confidence.

From aperture and shutter speed to white balance and focus, we will cover all the essential settings that play a crucial role in capturing stunning photographs. You will learn how these settings can impact your images and how to adjust them to achieve your desired results.

By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of the basic camera settings and be equipped with the knowledge to take control of your photography. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets of camera settings together!

Understanding the Basic Camera Settings

Introduction:

When it comes to photography, understanding the basic camera settings is essential for capturing stunning images. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, having a solid grasp of these settings can make a significant difference in the quality of your photos. In this article, we will dive into three key camera settings: Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to control these settings to achieve the desired effect in your photos.

Aperture

What is Aperture?

Aperture refers to the size of the opening in your camera lens that allows light to pass through and reach the camera sensor. It affects two crucial aspects of your photos: depth of field and exposure. Here’s what you need to know:

Depth of Field:

• Wide Aperture: A wide aperture (small f-number, such as f/1.8) creates a shallow depth of field. This means that only a small portion of the image will be in sharp focus, while the rest will be blurred. It’s great for portraits or subjects where you want to isolate them from the background.
• Narrow Aperture: A narrow aperture (large f-number, such as f/16) results in a deep depth of field. This means that the entire scene, from foreground to background, will be in focus. It’s ideal for landscape photography or situations where you want everything in the frame to be sharp.

Exposure:

• Brighter Images: By using a wider aperture, more light enters the camera, resulting in brighter images. This is particularly useful in low-light situations or when you want to create a shallow depth of field.
• Darker Images: Using a narrower aperture reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor, resulting in darker images. This can be helpful when you want to capture long exposures or create a deep depth of field.

To deepen your understanding of aperture and its impact on your photography, check out this comprehensive guide to camera settings: Guide to Camera Settings

Shutter Speed

What is Shutter Speed?

Shutter speed refers to the length of time your camera’s shutter remains open, allowing light to reach the sensor. It plays a crucial role in capturing motion and controlling exposure. Let’s take a look at how it affects your photos:

Freezing Motion or Creating Motion Blur:

• Fast Shutter Speed: A fast shutter speed (such as 1/1000th of a second) freezes motion, making it perfect for capturing action shots or fast-moving subjects.
• Slow Shutter Speed: A slow shutter speed (like 1/30th of a second) creates motion blur. It’s ideal for capturing the flow of waterfalls, light trails at night, or any subject where you want to convey a sense of movement.

Exposure:

• Brighter Images: Using a slower shutter speed allows more light to reach the sensor, resulting in brighter images. This is useful in low-light situations or when intentionally creating motion blur.
• Darker Images: On the other hand, a faster shutter speed reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor, resulting in darker images. It can be beneficial in situations where you need to balance exposure or freeze fast-moving subjects.

ISO

What is ISO?

ISO refers to the sensitivity of your camera’s sensor to light. It plays a crucial role in adjusting the exposure of your photos, especially in low-light conditions. Here’s what you need to know about ISO:

Low ISO vs. High ISO:

• Low ISO (e.g., ISO 100): A low ISO setting is ideal for shooting in bright lighting conditions. The images will have minimal noise and a more significant dynamic range. However, it may require longer shutter speeds or wider apertures to compensate for the lower sensitivity.
• High ISO (e.g., ISO 1600+): A high ISO setting is useful in low-light situations where you need to capture more light. However, it increases the risk of noise and reduces the dynamic range of your images. Balancing ISO with other settings is crucial to maintaining image quality.

To delve deeper into ISO and its impact on your photography, make sure to check out this comprehensive guide to camera settings: Guide to Camera Settings

Conclusion:

Understanding and mastering the basic camera settings of Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO is vital for taking your photography to the next level. By controlling these settings, you can unleash your creativity and capture stunning images that truly reflect your vision. So, grab your camera, experiment with different settings, and let your creativity shine through your lens!

The Importance of White Balance

White balance is a crucial aspect of photography that often goes overlooked. It plays a significant role in determining the overall color temperature and accuracy of an image. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, understanding and adjusting white balance can make a world of difference in the quality of your photographs.

What is White Balance?

In simple terms, white balance refers to the adjustment of colors in an image to make sure that white objects appear truly white, regardless of the lighting conditions. It ensures that the colors captured in a photograph are accurate and true to life. Have you ever taken a photo indoors and noticed that the image looks too warm or too cool? That’s a result of improper white balance.

The human eye has an amazing ability to adjust and adapt to different lighting conditions effortlessly. However, cameras often struggle with accurately capturing colors in different lighting situations. That’s where manually adjusting the white balance can make all the difference. It allows us to compensate for different types of lighting, such as fluorescent, incandescent, or natural sunlight.

How to Adjust White Balance

Fortunately, most modern cameras have an auto white balance setting that does a decent job of adjusting the colors on its own. However, for more control over the color temperature and to ensure accurate results, manually adjusting the white balance is recommended. Here are a few methods to adjust the white balance:

1. Preset White Balance Settings: Cameras often come with preset white balance options such as daylight, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, and flash. These presets are optimized for specific lighting conditions and can produce more accurate colors.
2. Custom White Balance: Many cameras allow you to set a custom white balance by taking a photo of a white or neutral gray card in the same lighting conditions as your subject. This method ensures the most accurate and precise white balance adjustment.
3. Post-Processing Software: If you shoot in RAW format, you can also adjust the white balance during post-processing using software such as Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. This gives you greater flexibility and control over your image colors.

Remember, white balance is not a one-size-fits-all setting. It varies depending on the lighting conditions and the effect you want to achieve in your photographs. Experimenting with different settings and shooting in RAW format can give you the flexibility to fine-tune the white balance during post-processing.

As you can see, understanding and adjusting white balance is crucial for achieving accurate and visually appealing colors in your photographs. So next time you’re out shooting, don’t forget to pay attention to the lighting conditions and tweak your white balance settings accordingly. Your images will thank you!

Depth of Field and its Impact on Photography

Photography is an art form that allows individuals to capture and preserve moments in time. It is a medium that enables us to convey emotions, tell stories, and showcase the beauty of the world around us. One crucial aspect of photography is understanding the concept of depth of field and how it can impact our images.

What is Depth of Field?

Depth of field refers to the zone of sharp focus in a photograph. It determines how much of the image appears in focus, from the foreground to the background. Shallow depth of field means that only a small portion of the image is in focus, while deep depth of field means a larger portion of the image is sharp and in focus.

The depth of field is affected by three main factors:

1. Aperture: The aperture setting on a camera determines the size of the lens opening. A wider aperture (smaller f-stop number) will result in a shallow depth of field, while a narrower aperture (larger f-stop number) will lead to a deeper depth of field. So, if you want to isolate a subject and create a beautiful background blur, you would choose a wide aperture like f/1.8 or f/2.8. On the other hand, if you’re shooting landscapes and want everything in focus, a narrower aperture like f/11 or f/16 would be more suitable.
2. Focal Length: The focal length of the lens also plays a role in depth of field. A longer focal length (telephoto lens) tends to have a shallower depth of field, while a shorter focal length (wide-angle lens) generally results in a deeper depth of field. So, if you want to capture a portrait with a creamy, blurred background, you may opt for a telephoto lens. But if you’re shooting a landscape and want to show the entire scene in sharp focus, a wide-angle lens would be a better choice.
3. Distance: The distance between the camera, the subject, and the background also affects the depth of field. The closer the subject is to the camera, the shallower the depth of field. Conversely, the farther away the subject is, the deeper the depth of field. So, if you’re taking a close-up shot of a flower, you’ll have a narrower plane of focus compared to a landscape shot where everything is far away.

The Role of Aperture in Depth of Field

When it comes to controlling depth of field, aperture is the most significant factor to consider. The aperture determines how much light enters the camera through the lens. But it also controls the depth of field, allowing photographers to manipulate what appears in focus.

A wider aperture (smaller f-stop number) not only lets more light into the camera but also results in a shallower depth of field. This creates a beautiful background blur, making the subject stand out and adding a sense of depth to the image. It’s commonly used in portrait photography to draw attention to the subject and separate it from the background.

On the other hand, a narrower aperture (larger f-stop number) restricts the amount of light entering the camera and results in a deeper depth of field. This is useful in landscape photography, where photographers often want everything in the scene to be sharp and in focus, from the foreground elements to the distant mountains or sky.

Understanding how aperture affects depth of field allows photographers to have creative control over their images. By intentionally adjusting the aperture, they can achieve the desired effect and create stunning compositions that effectively communicate their vision.

In conclusion, depth of field is an essential aspect of photography that influences how we perceive and engage with images. By understanding the role of variables such as aperture, focal length, and distance, photographers can manipulate depth of field to create impactful photographs that captivate viewers.

References:

• Aperture and Depth of Field – Photography Life
• Understanding Depth of Field in Photography – B&H Explora

The Role of Focus in Photography

Have you ever looked at a photograph and marveled at how every detail seems to be perfectly sharp and in focus? Or maybe you’ve noticed images where only the subject is in sharp focus while the background appears blurred. These variations in focus are not accidental but are deliberate choices made by photographers to create visually striking images.

In photography, focus refers to the sharpness and clarity of the subject or subjects in an image. It is a fundamental element that can make or break a photograph. Achieving the right focus requires a combination of technical knowledge, skill, and artistic vision.

Manual Focus vs. Auto Focus

One of the first decisions a photographer needs to make when it comes to focus is whether to use manual focus or auto focus. Let’s take a closer look at both options:

• Manual Focus: As the name suggests, manual focus requires the photographer to manually adjust the focus ring on the camera lens until the subject appears sharp in the viewfinder. This can be a time-consuming process, especially if the subject is in motion or if the photographer is shooting in low light conditions. However, manual focus allows for precise control over which elements of the scene are in focus, making it ideal for certain types of photography, such as macro or landscape photography.
• Auto Focus: Auto focus, on the other hand, relies on the camera’s internal systems to automatically determine the focus point based on various factors, such as contrast, distance, and subject movement. Most modern cameras offer different autofocus modes, including single point, zone, and tracking. Auto focus can be a quick and efficient way to achieve focus, especially in situations where there is limited time to adjust manually. It is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography.

Both manual focus and auto focus have their advantages and drawbacks, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the photographer’s preference, shooting conditions, and desired outcome.

Scene Modes and Focus

In addition to manual focus and auto focus, many cameras offer different scene modes that come pre-programmed with specific settings for various shooting conditions. These scene modes can include portrait, landscape, sports/action, macro, and more.

When using scene modes, the camera’s autofocus system is often optimized to prioritize certain aspects of the image. For example, in portrait mode, the camera may prioritize focusing on the subject’s face, while in landscape mode, it may prioritize focusing on elements in the distance. These scene modes can be a great starting point for beginners or those who want to quickly capture a specific type of shot without diving into the technical details of focus settings.

However, it’s important to note that relying solely on scene modes can limit creative control, as they are designed for general use and may not always produce the desired results in more specific or unique shooting situations.

When it comes to focus in photography, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It involves a combination of technical knowledge, practice, and artistic vision to achieve the desired results. Whether you choose to rely on manual focus, auto focus, or a combination of both, understanding the role of focus and how it contributes to the overall composition of your photographs is essential.

To learn more about specific focus settings and tips for Sony cameras, check out this in-depth guide on Sony Camera Focus Settings.

Delving into Exposure Modes

Understanding exposure modes is essential for any photographer looking to take their skills to the next level. Each exposure mode has its own unique characteristics and advantages, offering photographers greater control over their camera settings. In this section, we will explore the different exposure modes and discuss their benefits and when to use them.

Auto Exposure

Auto exposure mode is perfect for beginners or those seeking a quick and easy way to capture well-exposed images without getting into the technical details. In this mode, the camera automatically adjusts the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to obtain a correctly exposed image. It is a great option for everyday snapshots or situations where you need to capture a moment quickly without worrying about manual adjustments.

Some key points about auto exposure:

• The camera’s built-in light meter determines the optimal exposure settings.
• It is ideal for situations where lighting conditions change rapidly.
• Auto exposure can be beneficial in situations where you want to focus more on composition and capturing the moment than adjusting camera settings.

Program Auto Exposure

In program auto exposure mode, the camera selects both the aperture and the shutter speed, allowing photographers to have some control while maintaining overall simplicity. This mode is useful when you want to control certain aspects of the image, such as depth of field or freezing motion, without having to adjust both the aperture and shutter speed individually.

Here are a few things to know about program auto exposure:

• The camera selects the aperture and shutter speed combination based on the scene’s lighting conditions.
• Program auto exposure allows you to quickly adjust the exposure compensation to make the image brighter or darker.
• It provides a balance between automation and creative control, making it a popular choice for many photographers.

Shutter Priority

In shutter priority mode, you have control over the shutter speed while the camera adjusts the aperture accordingly. This mode is particularly useful when you want to control the motion blur in your images. By selecting a faster or slower shutter speed, you can either freeze or intentionally blur the movement in your photos.

Consider the following details about shutter priority mode:

• Shutter priority mode is best suited for situations where motion is a significant factor, such as sports or wildlife photography.
• It allows you to experiment with different shutter speeds while maintaining a consistent exposure.
• The camera will automatically adjust the aperture to achieve the correct exposure based on the selected shutter speed.

Aperture Priority

Aperture priority mode, on the other hand, allows you to set the desired aperture while the camera adjusts the shutter speed accordingly. Aperture controls the depth of field in your images, determining how much of the scene is in focus. This mode is ideal for photographers who want to have control over their images’ sharpness and background blur.

Here’s what to keep in mind about aperture priority mode:

• Aperture priority mode is commonly used in portrait photography, where you may want a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject from the background.
• It also allows you to adjust the exposure compensation to fine-tune the overall exposure of the image.
• The camera automatically selects the appropriate shutter speed based on the chosen aperture value.

Manual Exposure

In manual exposure mode, you have full control over both the aperture and shutter speed. This mode provides maximum control over the camera settings and is favored by experienced photographers who want precise control over the exposure. It is particularly useful in situations where lighting conditions are consistent or when capturing images with challenging lighting situations.

Here are some key points about manual exposure mode:

• Manual exposure mode requires you to have a good understanding of exposure principles and the relationship between aperture and shutter speed.
• It allows you to achieve a consistent exposure when the lighting conditions remain the same.
• Manual exposure mode gives you complete creative freedom to achieve the desired look and feel in your images.

Understanding exposure modes is crucial for photographers wanting to take control of their camera settings. Whether you prefer the convenience of auto exposure or the creative control of manual exposure, each mode offers its unique benefits. Experimenting and familiarizing yourself with each mode will ultimately help you elevate your photography skills. So, grab your camera and start exploring the exposure modes to unleash your creativity!

Understanding Metering Modes

Metering modes are an essential feature of any camera, allowing you to control how your camera measures and evaluates light. By understanding how each metering mode works, you can effectively capture well-exposed images in various lighting conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the different metering modes commonly found in digital cameras and how they can impact your photography.

Matrix or Evaluative Metering

The matrix or evaluative metering mode is the default setting on most cameras. This mode uses a complex algorithm to analyze the entire frame and determine the best exposure based on multiple factors, including lighting conditions, color, and subject distance. It divides the frame into multiple zones and evaluates the brightness and contrast in each zone to achieve an overall balanced exposure.

In simpler terms, matrix metering takes into account the various elements in the scene and tries to expose for the average brightness. This mode is especially useful in situations where the lighting is even throughout the frame or when the subject occupies a significant portion of the frame.

Center-Weighted Metering

Center-weighted metering is a mode that places emphasis on the center of the frame while evaluating the exposure. It considers the brightness and contrast within a circular or oval area around the center, giving more prominence to the subject in the middle of the frame. This mode is particularly useful when you want to capture a well-exposed subject, regardless of the surrounding elements.

For example, if you’re photographing a person against a bright background, center-weighted metering will ensure that the person’s face is correctly exposed, even if the background may appear overexposed.

Partial Metering

Partial metering is similar to center-weighted metering but focuses on an even smaller area. It typically evaluates the exposure within a smaller spot, usually around 10-15% of the frame, often located at the center. This metering mode is advantageous when you want to meter for a specific part of your subject, such as a person’s face or a small object.

By using partial metering, you can ensure that the most important part of your frame is properly exposed, even if the surroundings are significantly brighter or darker.

Spot Metering

Spot metering is the most precise and selective metering mode available in most cameras. It spot meters a very small area, usually around 2-5% of the frame, usually at the center or at the selected focus point. This mode is ideal for situations where you need precise control over the exposure, especially when dealing with high contrast scenes or backlit subjects.

Spot metering allows you to meter for a specific point in the frame, disregarding the surrounding areas. For example, if you’re photographing a backlit subject like a sunset, spot metering will help you expose for the sun without overexposing the rest of the frame.

Understanding your camera’s metering modes and knowing when to use each one can greatly improve your photography. Experiment with different metering modes in various lighting situations to see how they affect your exposure and overall image quality. With practice, you’ll develop a better understanding of metering and be able to capture perfectly exposed photographs in any scenario.

Experimenting with Different Shooting Modes

Have you ever wondered how professional photographers capture stunning images in different lighting conditions? The secret lies in their understanding and effective use of various shooting modes offered by their cameras. By experimenting with different shooting modes, you can take your photography skills to the next level and capture captivating images in any situation.

Let’s explore some of the most common shooting modes and see how they can help you achieve the desired results.

Auto Mode

Auto mode is the default setting on most cameras, and it’s perfect for beginners or those who prefer to let the camera make all the decisions. In this mode, the camera determines the optimal settings for exposure, focus, and white balance based on the scene it detects. While it’s convenient, auto mode can limit your creativity and control over the final image.

Program Mode

Program mode is similar to auto mode, but it offers a bit more flexibility. In this mode, the camera selects the aperture and shutter speed automatically, but you have the freedom to adjust other settings like ISO, exposure compensation, and white balance. Program mode is an excellent choice for photographers who want some control over their images while still relying on the camera’s automatic settings.

Shutter Priority Mode

If you’re interested in capturing motion, then shutter priority mode is your go-to option. In this mode, you set the desired shutter speed, and the camera adjusts the aperture accordingly. By controlling the shutter speed, you can freeze fast-moving subjects or create artistic blurs for a sense of motion in your shots.

Aperture Priority Mode

Aperture priority mode is favored by photographers who want to take control of the depth of field in their images. In this mode, you choose the desired aperture, and the camera adjusts the shutter speed to achieve proper exposure. By adjusting the aperture, you can create images with a shallow depth of field, where the subject is in sharp focus while the background is beautifully blurred, or with a deep depth of field, where both the subject and background are in focus.

Manual Mode

For the ultimate control over your images, manual mode is the way to go. In this mode, you have complete control over all the camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance. Manual mode allows you to customize every aspect of your image, giving you the freedom to experiment and achieve the exact look you envision.

So, the next time you’re out with your camera, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with different shooting modes. Embrace the creative possibilities they offer and unleash your photographic potential.

For more tips and detailed explanations of essential camera settings, check out the Beyond Auto Mode guide by Wimarys. Happy shooting!

The Essence of Flash Settings

Flash Modes

When it comes to taking great photographs, understanding the different flash modes available on your camera can make a significant difference. With the right settings, you can capture well-lit and balanced images that truly bring your subjects to life. So, let’s dive into the world of flash modes and explore how they can enhance your photography.

Auto Mode

In Auto Mode, your camera’s built-in flash will automatically activate when it detects a low-light situation. While this mode is convenient and ensures that you always have some additional light, it may not give you much control over the final result. The camera decides the intensity of the flash and the duration of the exposure, which may not always produce the desired effect.

Manual Mode

Manual Mode allows you to take full control over the flash settings. You have the flexibility to adjust the flash intensity, duration, and other parameters to achieve your desired lighting effects. This mode is ideal for more advanced photographers who have a good understanding of flash techniques and want complete creative control.

Fill Flash Mode

Fill Flash Mode is handy when you need to fill in shadows or balance the exposure in a scene. When shooting outdoors in bright sunlight, for example, your subject may have harsh shadows. By using fill flash, you can lighten up those areas and create a more even, flattering illumination. This mode is particularly useful for portrait photography.

Red-eye Reduction Mode

One common issue that can occur when using flash is the dreaded “red-eye” effect, where a subject’s eyes appear red in the photo. Red-eye Reduction Mode attempts to eliminate this problem by emitting a series of pre-flashes before taking the actual photo. These pre-flashes cause the subject’s pupils to contract, reducing the chance of red-eye. This mode is beneficial when capturing portraits, especially in low-light situations.

Flash Exposure Compensation

While flash modes help control the flash itself, Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC) gives you the power to adjust the overall exposure of a photo when using flash. This setting allows you to make the flash brighter or dimmer, depending on the scene and the effect you want to achieve.

Here’s how it works:

• If your subject appears too bright or overexposed when using flash, you can dial in negative FEC to decrease the flash power, resulting in a more balanced exposure.
• On the other hand, if your subject appears too dark or underexposed with flash, you can dial in positive FEC to increase the flash power and brighten up the scene.

By making these adjustments, you can fine-tune the lighting in your photos and ensure that your subjects are properly lit without any unwanted glare or shadows.

Pro tip: Experiment with different flash modes and flash exposure compensation settings to understand their effects on your images. Practice is key to perfecting your flash photography skills.

Remember, understanding and mastering the various flash settings can take your photography to new heights. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or capturing moments in low-light conditions, exploring different flash modes and utilizing flash exposure compensation will allow you to unleash your creativity and achieve stunning results.

Now that we’ve examined the essence of flash settings, let’s move on to understanding the importance of white balance and how it can impact your photographs. Stay tuned!

Next up: The Importance of White Balance

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the various camera settings can greatly enhance your photography skills and help you capture stunning images. By mastering concepts such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, depth of field, focus, exposure modes, metering modes, shooting modes, and flash settings, you’ll have greater control over your camera and be able to unleash your creative potential.

Remember, photography is all about experimentation and practice. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new techniques. Keep exploring, learning, and refining your skills to become a better photographer.

If you’re looking to take your photography to the next level, consider booking a private session or shoot with Wim Arys Photography. Wim, a talented photographer based in Brussels, Belgium, offers a range of services, including tutorials and reviews to help photographers improve their craft.

Visit Wim Arys Photography to learn more and embark on an exciting photography journey. Capture moments, tell stories, and create enduring memories with the art of photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some essential camera settings for amateur photographers?

   Some essential camera settings for amateur photographers include: 1. Aperture priority mode for controlling depth of field, 2. Shutter priority mode for capturing fast-moving subjects, 3. Manual mode for full control over settings, 4. ISO setting for adjusting sensitivity to light, and 5. White balance for accurate color representation.

2. How do I adjust the aperture on my camera?

   To adjust the aperture on your camera, switch to aperture priority mode or manual mode, then use the camera’s settings dial or menu system to select the desired aperture value. A lower aperture number (e.g., f/2.8) results in a wider aperture and shallower depth of field.

3. What is ISO and how does it affect my photos?

   ISO refers to the sensitivity of your camera’s image sensor to light. A higher ISO setting (e.g., ISO 800 or above) makes your camera more sensitive, allowing you to capture photos in low-light conditions. However, higher ISO values can introduce digital noise and reduce image quality.

4. What is shutter speed and how do I adjust it?

   Shutter speed refers to the amount of time the camera’s shutter remains open. A fast shutter speed (e.g., 1/1000 sec) freezes motion, while a slow shutter speed (e.g., 1/30 sec) creates motion blur. To adjust the shutter speed, switch to shutter priority mode or manual mode and use the camera’s settings dial.

5. Why is white balance important in photography?

   White balance is important because it ensures accurate color representation in your photos. Different light sources have different color temperatures, and adjusting the white balance setting on your camera helps you capture images with natural and true-to-life colors.