For first-time camera owners

Your camera, explained in plain language.

Tell PhotoStart what camera and lens you have and what you want to photograph. You get simple starting settings — and a short explanation of why each one matters.

Example starting settings

Portrait

Shutter

1/200 – 1/250 s

Aperture

f/1.8

ISO

100 – 400

Why: a wide opening blurs the background, 1/200s or faster keeps a standing person sharp, and daylight lets ISO stay low.

How it works

1. Pick your gear

Choose from 28 common cameras and 36 popular lenses — or browse the guides first.

2. Pick your subject

Portraits, weddings, sport, night streets, food… 16 scenarios with starting settings for each.

3. Understand the why

Every recommendation comes with plain-language reasons, plus warnings when your gear needs a different plan.

Popular scenarios

All 16 scenarios