Does this sound like you?
You’re on an amazing trip or enjoying a fun experience and want to document the moment. You’re standing in front of the perfect scene with your camera in hand ready to push the shutter.
Your camera is set in automatic mode because well, that’s where it’s always set. You take a picture and look at it on your camera… but it doesn’t match the vision you had in your head.
You’ve heard that manual mode is the key to having control over your images so you switch modes. But then, you’re hit with a wave of confusion – what do you adjust first? The aperture? Shutter speed? ISO? It feels like there are too many settings to juggle, and before you know it, the moment starts slipping away.
Frustration builds because you know what you want to capture, but your photos are either too bright, too dark, or blurry. You try again, but the same thing keeps happening.
You retreat to auto mode, feeling like you’ve missed an opportunity.
You know manual mode is supposed to give you more control, but right now, it feels like it’s just causing you to miss the moments you want to capture…
I remember this feeling all too well.
This challenge was created to help you:
✅ Become more comfortable with your camera and learn how to create images that match your vision!
✅ Finally understand the manual mode basics – aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
✅ Learn how to adjust your settings in different situations and environments.
✅ Build a consistent photography habit – by combining learning with hands-on practice for 6 weeks.
You’ll learn how to easily…
What’s included
Inside this 37-page document you’ll find:
✅ A breakdown of the big 3 camera settings required to shoot in manual mode
✅ Manual mode cheat sheets
✅ 6 weekly prompts to help you learn + practice, example photos, and reflection questions
✅ Bonus tips included throughout
Hi, I’m Mekenna
I’m a photographer who loves active travel, experiencing new places, and documenting real moments in time with my camera.
I remember the frustration of trying to figure everything out on my own, especially when expensive courses weren’t an option. That’s why I’ve created affordable digital products like this one – to help you learn faster and with less hassle.
Questions? I have answers!
Who is this e-book for?
Manual Mode Essentials is perfect for beginners or anyone who’s experimented with manual settings a little bit before but hasn’t been able to grasp shooting in manual mode. It’s especially useful for those looking to gain confidence and consistency with their photography.
How will this e-book help me?
This e-book simplifies the manual mode essentials, providing easy-to-understand information and practical tips. By the end of the e-book, you’ll begin to understand how to adjust your settings in different environments and take better photos without relying on automatic mode.
How much time will this take each week?
The challenge is designed to fit into your busy schedule. Each week’s exercises can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 1 hour, making it manageable to practice and improve consistently without feeling overwhelmed.
Do I need special equipment?
No special equipment is required! As long as your camera has manual settings, you’re good to go. This guide focuses on getting the most out of your existing camera gear.
How is this different from other photography resources?
Unlike lengthy courses or overly technical tutorials, this e-book is designed to give you a clear, actionable foundation that you can implement right away. It’s straightforward, easy to follow, and focuses on what you really need to know.
Why not give it away for free?
Because I believe that when you invest in something, you’re more likely to take it seriously, apply the lessons, and truly learn. Paying adds value and accountability to your photography journey!
If you’re tired of feeling stuck in automatic mode…
I have good news.
You don’t have to stay there.
In this 6-week challenge, you’ll follow the same simple exercises that took me from relying on auto to confidently using manual mode to document my life experiences many years ago.