Guideline for Nikon D3400 Portrait Settings

The Nikon D3400 is an excellent camera for portrait photographers. This camera is lightweight, compact, and delivers exceptional portrait shots with its flexible zoom range.

Once you have created this masterpiece, it is important to know the settings and tips to ensure the best portrait shots with Nikon D3400. We have the following tips and tricks to help you get the best portrait shot with your Nikon D3400.

Portrait Shooting with Nikon D3400

Step 1. Mode Dial

The Mode Dial is the most important control when using the Nikon D3400. This will allow you to select the camera’s exposure setting. It will affect the image’s exposure and also give you access to other controls. You can access all features of the D3400 with the automatic exposure on. This is the best thing about using it. PSAM offers maximum control over your photography.

P stands to Program Auto, which is a great way to get started exploring the features of your camera. This feature selects the aperture setting, shutter speed and allows you to modify the rest of the parameters like exposure compensation.

S stands to Shutter Priority, where you can choose the shutter speed and the camera will select the appropriate aperture setting for what it considers a good exposure.

A refers to Aperture Priority. This can be used to adjust the depth-of-field, which controls how much of the focus picture (from close to far) appears in focus.

M stands for Manual. This gives you complete control over shutter speed and aperture settings. You can adjust either one or both settings until the exposure gauge marker appears in the middle.

Step 2. Guide to Click a Group Portrait or Selfie

You can use the self-timer to enter the frame by yourself, or with a group. To ensure that everyone is in focus, set the aperture to f/5.6 (or a smaller f-stop number). Make sure the shutter speed is fast enough for the movement to be frozen when shooting an action scene (1/200 or higher).

After focusing manually, press the Release Mode button. Next, select self-timer, and then press the shutter button. When the camera is about to take a photo, it will beep.

Step 3. Steps to Freeze Action

For shutter priority, set the Mode Dial to “S”. The shutter speed should be set to 1/200 sec or more depending on how fast the shutter is moving. Select Continuous shooting by pressing the Release Mode button (located under the 4-way controller). Next, select the focus mode by pressing the Info button to access the menu. It will be AF-C (i.e. continuous autofocus). To engage continuous autofocus, the shutter should be held half-full. Once you anticipate the movement of your subject, press the shutter button to begin shooting.

Step 4. Setting the White Balance

To match the lighting conditions in your chosen scene or location, you must set the white balance to 9. If you’re shooting indoors and using normal lighting, change the white balance to Incandescent. If you’re counting on flash, change the white balance to Flash.

If you have a Nikon D3400 and want to capture some stunning portraits, follow these guidelines.