Shutter and Aperture priority - Slow shutter

ShortWarning · 6 May 2014 at 10:08

Hey guys,

Apologies, I'm very new to this.

I was messing around with my Nikon 5100 this weekend trying out the different modes.

I switched to shutter priority. First thing is, the highest I can select is 1/200 yet if I set the camera to "Sports mode" it goes all the way up to 1/1600. Also even when set at 1/200 the shutter was really really slow, like 1/2.

Also a question on Aperture priority. I enjoy shots with a sharp foreground and blurred background (as I'm sure a lot of people do). Now, if I set to auto generally this is how shots will come out but if I set to Aperture priority it is a lot harder to achieve the desired results.

Where am I going wrong?

Sorry for the basic questions but I'm trying to avoid using "Auto" mode as much as possible.

ShortWarning · 6 May 2014 at 11:43

Thanks for your reply.

I did not have the flash turned on.

I understand the very very basics (as above) but it seems to be very hit or miss for me when using aperture priority.

ShortWarning · 6 May 2014 at 12:28

I'll upload some when I get home.

ShortWarning · 6 May 2014 at 13:48

I am choosing the lowest number (which I believe is the widest?). I have tried it both ways anyway. As I say, sometimes I get the desired effect but sometimes I really struggle.

Shutter and ISO when in Aperture priority? I will have to check. When in Aperture priority it should pick it automatically, right? It was in daylight so I assume the ISO was 100 or possibly 200.

Edit - The lenses I have are the kit lens that came with it (18-55mm) and Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6 AFS DX VR Lens (it also came with it). I believe the aperture goes wider in the kit lens but I've had more success with the 55-200mm.

ShortWarning · 9 May 2014 at 10:48

Thank you for all the information, I tried shutter priority again and it just worked, could ramp it all the way up. I must have been synced to the flash.

I have another question (unrelated). I have bought a macro lens extender (a cheapy one from ebay) and when I try to use it says "no lens present" which I would expect but how can I still take photos? Or is it not possible?