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How to use a Canon T90

The Canon T90 is a professional reflex camera that was very successful in the '80s and '90s. Although it has been replaced by more modern models today, the T90 remains an excellent choice for those who want to take high-quality photos.

In this article, we will explain how to use the Canon T90 to its fullest potential, starting from the basics and moving on to advanced features.

What you will find in this article:

  • The main features of the Canon T90;
  • How to properly set up the camera;
  • How to choose the right lens for every situation;
  • How to adjust exposure parameters to get perfect photos;
  • How to use the advanced features of the Canon T90.

If you're ready to discover everything there is to know about the Canon T90, keep reading!

Getting to Know the Canon T90

The Canon T90 is a film reflex camera produced by Canon in the '80s. It was one of the most advanced cameras of its time, with many innovative features that are still appreciated by photographers today.

Design and Features

The Canon T90 has a classic design of a film reflex camera, but with some distinctive features. It has a sturdy metal body, a very large and bright viewfinder, and an LCD display on the back for viewing camera settings.

In addition, it has an incredibly wide shutter speed range from 30 seconds to 1/4000 of a second. This means that you can take photos in any lighting condition without having to use expensive filters or other accessories.

Exposure Modes

The Canon T90 offers several exposure modes, including manual mode, aperture priority, and shutter speed priority. Manual mode allows you to fully control the exposure of your photo, while the other modes allow you to focus on a specific aspect of exposure (such as aperture or shutter speed) while the camera takes care of the rest.

AF System

The Canon T90 also has an advanced AF (autofocus) system to help you get sharp photos. The AF system uses a cross sensor to detect focus and can be set to different focus points depending on your needs.

Basic Settings

Before you start using your Canon T90, it's important to understand the basic settings that will allow you to get the best results. Here are some fundamental steps:

1. Setting the Shooting Mode

Firstly, you need to select the correct shooting mode for the situation you're photographing. The Canon T90 offers several options to choose from, such as:

  • Manual (M): this mode allows you to fully control the exposure of your photo;
  • Aperture Priority (Av): this mode allows you to set the aperture and the camera sets the appropriate shutter speed;
  • Shutter Speed Priority (Tv): this mode allows you to set the shutter speed and the camera sets the appropriate aperture.

2. Setting the ISO

The ISO setting determines the camera's sensitivity to light. A higher ISO is useful in low-light situations, but it can also introduce noise into your photos. It's best to keep the ISO as low as possible while still getting a properly exposed photo.

3. Choosing the Focus Mode

The Canon T90 offers several focus modes, including single-shot AF and continuous AF. Single-shot AF is best for stationary subjects, while continuous AF is better for moving subjects.

4. Setting the White Balance

The white balance setting determines how colors are rendered in your photos. You can either set it manually or use one of the camera's preset white balance settings.

By following these basic steps, you'll be well on your way to taking great photos with your Canon T90!

Exposure and focus.
  • Semi-automatic (Tv or Av): these modes allow you to control only one part of the exposure (shutter speed or aperture) while the camera takes care of the rest.
  • Automatic program (P): this mode allows you to leave complete control of exposure and focus to the camera.
  • 2. Setting aperture and shutter speed

    After selecting the shooting mode, you need to set the correct aperture and shutter speed. The aperture controls the amount of light entering the lens, while the shutter speed determines how long the camera sensor is exposed to light.

    If you are using manual mode, you need to set both values manually. Otherwise, the camera will set them for you.

    3. Setting focus

    Finally, it's important to select the correct type of focus for the situation you're photographing. The Canon T90 offers several options to choose from, such as:

    • Auto Focus (AF): this option allows the camera to automatically select the focus area.
    • Manual Focus (MF): this option allows you to manually control focus.

    Be sure to select the correct focus mode based on the situation you're photographing.

    By following these simple steps, you'll be able to achieve great results with your Canon T90. Remember to experiment and try different settings to find what works best for you and your photographic needs.

    Advanced usage

    In addition to basic functions, the Canon T90 offers a range of advanced options for photographers who want to experiment and achieve even more precise results. Here are some of the advanced features of the Canon T90:

    Multiple exposure

    The multiple exposure function allows you to overlay different images in a single photo. This can be used to create artistic images or to show motion action in a single scene. To use this function, select "Multi-Exposure" from the settings menu and choose the desired number of exposures. Then, take individual images with the same exposure and the camera will automatically combine them into a single photo.

    Exposure bracketing

    Exposure bracketing is useful when you want to make sure you capture the perfect image without having to make many attempts. This function allows the camera to automatically take three photos with different exposures (underexposed, correctly exposed, and overexposed). This way, you have the option to choose the best exposure among the three. To use this function, select "Exposure Bracketing" from the settings menu and choose the desired exposure interval value.

    Manual mode

    The manual mode allows you to have complete control over exposure, shutter speed, and aperture. This option is useful when experimenting with different settings combinations to achieve the perfect image. To use this function, select "M" from the mode selector and manually adjust the settings.

    External flash

    The Canon T90 has a socket for an external flash, which allows you to use a more powerful flash or position it differently than the built-in flash. This can be useful when shooting in low light conditions or when you want to create specific lighting effects. To use an external flash, connect it to the flash socket on the camera and turn it on before taking the photo.

    • Multiple exposure: overlay multiple images in a single photo
    • Exposure bracketing: automatically take three photos with different exposures
    • Manual mode: complete control over exposure, shutter speed, and aperture
    • External flash: use of a more powerful flash or different positioning than the built-in flash

    With these advanced features of the Canon T90, photographers can experiment and achieve even more precise results. Choose the right function for the image you want to capture and start experimenting.

    Tips and tricks

    Here are some tips and tricks that can help you make the most of your Canon T90's features:

    Choose the right film

    The choice of film is important to achieve the desired result. If you want to shoot black and white photos, choose a specific film for this purpose. Similarly, if you want to shoot color photos, choose a color film.

    Learn to use manual focus

    Although the Canon T90 has a very precise automatic focus system, learning to use manual focus can be useful in some situations. For example, when shooting a subject with a busy background or in low light.

    Experiment with exposure settings

    Your Canon T90 offers you many options to control the exposure of your photos. Experiment with aperture and shutter speed settings to achieve different effects. For example, you can use a long exposure to create motion effects or reduce depth of field to emphasize your subject.

    Use a tripod for stable shots

    If you want to get stable and sharp shots, use a tripod. This is particularly useful when using long shutter speeds or shooting in low light conditions.

    Shoot in RAW format

    If you want maximum control over post-production of your photos, shoot in RAW format. This allows you to edit many image parameters such as color temperature and exposure without losing quality.

    • Choose the right film to achieve the desired result
    • Learn to use manual focus
    • Experiment with exposure settings to achieve different effects
    • Use a tripod for stable shots
    • Shoot in RAW format for maximum control over post-production of your photos

    Remember that your Canon T90 is a very versatile and powerful camera. Experiment with its features and have fun taking unique and creative photos!

    In summary:

    • Choose the right film to achieve the desired result;
    • Learn to use manual focus;
    • Experiment with exposure settings to achieve different effects;
    • Use a tripod for stable shots;
    • Shoot in RAW format for maximum control over post-production of your photos.

    Now that you know how to best use your Canon T90, all you have to do is put yourself to the test and experiment. Remember that photography is an art and as such requires passion, creativity, and constant commitment. With these tips and tricks, you can achieve extraordinary results and create unforgettable images!

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