Learning to Use Mirrorless Cameras

Want to make the switch to a mirrorless camera? Get an introduction to the essential technology that powers micro four-thirds format and other mirrorless cameras.

Introduction

• Want to learn how to use a mirrorless camera?
• How to use this course
• Downloading your user manual

1. Mirrorless and Micro Four Thirds Quick Start

• A guided tour: Common buttons and controls
• Getting ready to shoot
• Powering up your camera
• Reducing camera shake
• Taking some shots in Auto mode and reviewing the images
• Shooting in scene modes

2. The Technology behind Mirrorless Shooting

• Comparing DSLR and mirrorless cameras
• Manufacturers making mirrorless cameras
• Breaking down the acronyms: MILC, MFT
• Understanding sensor size
• The impact of a crop factor
• WYSIWYG shooting styles with electronic viewfinders and live view

3. Lens Options for Mirrorless Cameras

• The limitations of kit and budget lenses
• Working with prime lenses
• The rise of professional mirrorless lenses
• Using a teleconverter or extender to modify your lenses
• Lenses optimized for video shooting

4. Shooting in Programmed Auto Mode

• What is Program Auto mode?
• Changing ISO
• Adjusting exposure compensation
• Using flexible program mode

5. Exploring Autofocus

• Understanding focus points and autofocus
• Choosing the autofocus selection mode
• Focusing manually

6. Understanding Shutter-Release Modes

• Shooting in continuous or burst mode
• Silent shooting
• Using the self-timer
• Using a remote

7. Understanding Exposure Controls

• Understanding and switching between metering modes
• Exposure lock
• Aperture Priority mode
• Shutter Priority mode
• Manual Exposure mode
• Long-exposure shooting (Bulb mode)
• Exposure bracketing
• HDR shooting

8. Beyond the Basics

• Setting a custom white balance
• Controlling your flash
• Using picture styles or creative effects
• Shooting panoramas
• Adjusting your LCD
• Cleaning your image sensor
• Customizing your camera menus

9. Working with Video and Your Mirrorless or MFT Camera

• Adjusting movie record settings
• Choosing the right memory card for recording video
• Attaching an external microphone to the camera
• Recording and viewing movies
• Shooting time-lapse movies

10. Advice When Choosing a Mirrorless Camera's Camera Body

• Setting your budget for your camera
• Paying attention to ergonomics
• Consider existing gear when choosing a system
• Openness of platform

Conclusion

• Goodbye