How do you use your Custom Modes?

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Good topic, worth revisiting on a regular basis to see what people do.

In my case stuck and happy at E-P5 level with 4 MySets assigned to the mode dial and they have not changed in many years so far. Most use is on overseas holidays but they have dried up somewhat due to some virus thingie afflicting the world plus increased airline prices and general problems dealing with travel now that I'm older and weaker.

Most times with my travel it is about sufficient depth of field and sensible shutter speeds, the 12-40/2.8 and more recently the 8-18/2.8-4 does 99% of what I need from my M4/3 gear. And now the MySets....

1. A mode, f/5.6 auto ISO limit 1600 - for good to average light.
2. A mode, f/4 auto ISO limit 6400 - for lousy light inside buildings and many night scenes.
3. A mode, f/2.8 (or maximum aperture if some other lens) auto ISO limit 25600 for when there's basically no light and any result will do.
4. M mode, usually set up for the rare moments using a flash, usually the FL-300R.

Naturally using the MySets the aperture may get changed from the default but most times out of the bag and take a shot it gets what I need. All above are raw+jpeg and auto white balance.

In everyday usage I may wander about a new place with MySet1, but if I go into some dim cathedral and take a shot then the sound of the slower shutter speed alerts me to thumb the dial to #2 and take the shot again. Usually the slow one is OK anyway due to the IBIS.

When I wander back out into the sun again and start shooting it may take a shot or two to realise that I'm still on the dim light MySet so then thumb the dial back to the good light MySet. The "mistaken" shot is still perfectly OK due to the auto ISO making up for my stupidity.

Essentially I've made my cameras easier to use than the average point 'n' shoot.

Rare to need to go to the SCP and even rarer to need to dip into the menu system.



Fresh dial tops care of Brother PT-P700 tape printer.

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

What I usually have loaded onto my E-M1 III:
C1 - P General: can do most things reasonably well and what is loaded into the PASM dial positions.
C2 - A People: groups, portraits, and speeches (when work demands)
C3 - S Fast stuff: sports, cars, snail races
C4 - M Still stuff: macro, landscape

Sure wish I could change a C modes' exposure mode (PASM) via a button :-(

I have tailored the ProCap L & H settings in each mode to suit that mode so have no specific "Pro Cap" custom mode (various Max FPS & Pre Shutter Frames. Frame Count Limiter always off).

I couldn't use labels unless they were re-usable and couldn't be lost because I have sets saved for specific needs that aren't currently loaded into the camera.

JoiseyM43 said:

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Click to expand...

1. G9

2. C1-1080p50 C2-4k50 C3-150fps (its lower than 1080)

3. custom setting are just some video dedicated buttons like the 'digital tripod' for locking off handheld static shots.

4. No

I dont shoot much video, so I like to set it up this way. Jumping between still settings for AF, drive mode, etc, I find pretty quick to change on the fly, mostly its just a button, dial or lever away.

A bit backwards XD

Happy new year!

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using

Click to expand...

G85 (also GX85 & GX850 as well).

NJDan said:

1. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.

Click to expand...

I wish I can but it is not avaliable to my Pannys yet, I stick a cheat sheet at the back of the LCD to remind me because I change it very often.

NJDan said:

1. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
2. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Click to expand...

NJDan said:

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Click to expand...

I might use C mode differently from many members AFAIK.

C mode is only for the shooting environment which will need deeper setting and usually cannot set it up quickly when I need it. My current C modes on G85 are:

C1 (for 4K video): Video-S mode, 4K format in MP4 @30fps, Cinelike-V, Shutter speed at 1/60", customized AF mode (2x3 at the center), AF sensitivity = -2, Mic Level Display=ON, plus a Q.Menu having 5 video related controls on Page 1.

C2-1 (for M Mode & Manual ISO): M mode, Manual ISO, Constant Preview=OFF.

C2-2 (for wildlife): S mode, shutter speed @1/1600" , Auto ISO (limit at 3200), AFC, Burst=M (dial operation), customized AF mode (Diamond shape 3,5,3 at the center), AF sensitivity = +2.

C2-3 (selfie): A mode, AFF, Face detection, photo style=standard, 2" self timer (dial operation).

For more older C modes, I had once setup for high ISO stacking, for using rain sleeve and even one for AEB (still using it on GX85). I missed the GX7 which has 5 C modes for me to play with :-( .

NJDan said:

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

For the eq to ProCapture of Panny: 4K Photo mode, it is a Dial control item on G85 such that not need to set up a C mode for it. In case of GX85 it can be assigned to fn key, both just work with S mode should be OK.

Happy new year.

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

I need 5 custom modes, so I rely on the recent capability to restore a single custom mode from saved modes on my phone.

I recall settings from C1, C2, or C3 to the appropriate PASM mode. Those modes are set to reset settings. I use C4 as a second shooting bank, with a function button set to switch to and from it. C4 is set to hold settings.

I use C1 for standard shooting; S-AF and C-AF switched with function lever. S-AF is BBF, C-AF is shutter.

I use C2 for either Macro or Studio/flash, I keep it on Macro and overwrite when I need.

I use C3 for fast action.

I use C4 for action.

I've always wished for Olympus to have some of the features of Panasonic, especially 5 custom modes. But early on, Olympus had the ability to recall custom settings (first with MySets, then with Custom Modes). Nothing else compares. I rely on the custom settings to provide a fixed baseline. It was a setback when they switched from 4 MySets to 3 custom modes, but at least they're back to 4.

I also shoot Panasonic, and they have a lot of features, but you can't recall the settings and that is a serious drawback for my shooting style.

I also shoot Nikon, but their user settings are a sad joke. They don't even save them when I back up settings to a memory card (a feature I wish Olympus had; recent Panasonic cameras can ddo this and have multiple versions). One of the reasons I updated from a Z7 to a Z7II was to get an SD card slot so i could manage user settings (I need three SD cards to do so, one for each user setting...what a total pain).

Olympus has always been my preferred camera with respect to user settings, and the changes made to the E-M1 III ("hold" setting, My Menus) make it even more useful. In fact, this was a factor in my selling my E-M1X and E-M1ii and getting the OM-1.

Bassam Guy said:

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

What I usually have loaded onto my E-M1 III:
C1 - P General: can do most things reasonably well and what is loaded into the PASM dial positions.
C2 - A People: groups, portraits, and speeches (when work demands)
C3 - S Fast stuff: sports, cars, snail races
C4 - M Still stuff: macro, landscape

Sure wish I could change a C modes' exposure mode (PASM) via a button :-(

I have tailored the ProCap L & H settings in each mode to suit that mode so have no specific "Pro Cap" custom mode (various Max FPS & Pre Shutter Frames. Frame Count Limiter always off).

I couldn't use labels unless they were re-usable and couldn't be lost because I have sets saved for specific needs that aren't currently loaded into the camera.

Click to expand...

I recall the custom setting to PASM and change modes as needed. If I wanted to change it permanently, I'd just save it back.

I use Panasonic GX8 which has 5 custom modes.

When I started with the camera 7 years ago I setup up the Custom Modes similar to what you do. However, I found that often I would need to change something, or the need to reconfigure the mode to include something else. And carrying a card with all of the settings.

That got old quickly, so now I use just two:

C1 is my normal everyday mode, Aperture Priority, Daylight WB, Base ISO. I change aperture and EV compensation as needed.

It's so easy on this camera to change WB, ISO with the control wheel if necessary, so I don't feel the need to set up different Modes. On restart, everything reverts back to my default configuration.

C2 I use for configuring for a specific occasion, such as early morning with AWB and AUTO ISO. Or a warmer WB when photographing in my garden. Or Electronic Shutter OFF for flash. These settings will survive a restart.

This evening I set C2 for Monochrome.







I keep things simple.

--
Richard
http://www.rsjphoto.net/

john isaacs said:

Bassam Guy said:

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

What I usually have loaded onto my E-M1 III:
C1 - P General: can do most things reasonably well and what is loaded into the PASM dial positions.
C2 - A People: groups, portraits, and speeches (when work demands)
C3 - S Fast stuff: sports, cars, snail races
C4 - M Still stuff: macro, landscape

Sure wish I could change a C modes' exposure mode (PASM) via a button :-(

I have tailored the ProCap L & H settings in each mode to suit that mode so have no specific "Pro Cap" custom mode (various Max FPS & Pre Shutter Frames. Frame Count Limiter always off).

I couldn't use labels unless they were re-usable and couldn't be lost because I have sets saved for specific needs that aren't currently loaded into the camera.

Click to expand...

I recall the custom setting to PASM and change modes as needed. If I wanted to change it permanently, I'd just save it back.

Click to expand...

That is the exact PITA I want to avoid

Without going into the details of each modes:

C1 - General Photography
C2 - Wildlife
C3 - Manual Lenses
C4 - People

Each is a mix of settings and buttons mapping, which I am still tweaking.

-------
Roger

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

Interesting question and replies.

Mine:

1. Mostly EM1.3

2. Settings:

C1 - general: ISO 200, S-AF, A mode @ largest aperture,AWB

C2 - (fast) moving targets: auto ISO, 1/1000, C-AF, all targets, burst with AF, AWB

C3 - ND, AWB

C4 - HHHR, auto ISO, AWB

I don't save changes. These are base settings from which I change according to specific conditions - I find that easier when I have a stable starting point.

Bassam Guy said:

john isaacs said:

Bassam Guy said:

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

What I usually have loaded onto my E-M1 III:
C1 - P General: can do most things reasonably well and what is loaded into the PASM dial positions.
C2 - A People: groups, portraits, and speeches (when work demands)
C3 - S Fast stuff: sports, cars, snail races
C4 - M Still stuff: macro, landscape

Sure wish I could change a C modes' exposure mode (PASM) via a button :-(

I have tailored the ProCap L & H settings in each mode to suit that mode so have no specific "Pro Cap" custom mode (various Max FPS & Pre Shutter Frames. Frame Count Limiter always off).

I couldn't use labels unless they were re-usable and couldn't be lost because I have sets saved for specific needs that aren't currently loaded into the camera.

Click to expand...

I recall the custom setting to PASM and change modes as needed. If I wanted to change it permanently, I'd just save it back.

Click to expand...

That is the exact PITA I want to avoid

Click to expand...

Well, you can't avoid it.

I have set the Olympus E-M10 II to use Custom Modes. This forces the P-Mode to use the Custom Modes I have set. I can over-ride those settings manually in any session.

But when I switch off the E-M10 II, I lose my manual changes. Retaining the changes needs a multi-step process to alter the Custom Settings, in two separate menu locations. This takes time.

The time I take to do this irritates the very person who quite recently referred to me as 'the best photographer I ever had'. I try not to irritate her.

The Olympus E-M10 II also features a 'Super Control' Panel'. It retains the changed settings when I switch off the camera. Changes are quick, so they don't irritate anyone I work with. I am convinced that the firmware writer doing the Custom Settings never talked to the one doing the Super Control Panel.

Two years ago I also bought the Olympus E-M10 Mark IV. It has no Custom Settings, but the Super Control Panel covers more uses, specifically for video.

With more resolution as well, the E-M10 IV is my preferred body, particularly since the firmware update on 28th February 2022 has improved the auto-focus as well.

Henry

I almost always re-program mine for each event, travel, photo outing, whatever ... If it's more than just casual click click, I'll think through the main shots that I might do and then see if I should program some of the modes for shots that need significantly different settings. At something like an event it can really useful. You might miss a shot if you are fiddling with camera settings. Also I'm forgetful which can play havoc, like forgetting to reset exposure compensation, or forgetting to change the ISO back after doing low-light shots ...., and then take loads of pictures with the unintended settings (oh wow, I didn't need to take all those @3200 ISO!). The custom modes can make less things to worry about.

I'm not experienced enough to determine permanent modes for myself. I tried that at one point, setting up all my bodies to have C1, C2, C3, etc... (some have more than others), into the same specific settings for shots I would use more routinely at home, like backyard birds/critters, flower closeups, insect closeups ... so regardless of the body I picked up, the C modes would do roughly the same thing. But I found I wiped them all the time for events and photo outings and never kept up with it. As I gradually get the zen of photography I think I'll go back to that.

I wish there was a way to externally set up the modes (like in a app or spreadsheet) and then upload the settings. It would be nice to be able to manage all your bodies like that and would help with event planning. I have checked to see if there is such a thing and have not found it though I'm sure there is way as I think those configurations are on the SD card in a file. I develop software for a living so maybe I can take a look at that some day.

Jeeter001 said:

I almost always re-program mine for each event, travel, photo outing, whatever ...

Click to expand...

And that is precisely the procedure that alarms the person I have worked with for 22 years. It gives her the conviction that I don't understand my gear.

Henry

--
Henry Falkner - E-M10 Mark II and Mark IV, SH-1, SH-50
http://www.pbase.com/hfalkner

The lack of several very quick to deploy Custom modes on the mode dial is one of the main reasons I have not bought an OM-5, E-M5 III, E-M10 IV, etc. They have only one Custom setting on the mode dial. My PEN-F and E-M10 II have 4 on the mode dial. Note, that the E-M10 II, E-M5 II, and other cameras of that era had a different name for them. They were called MySets and you could program up to 4 of them to be assigned to spots on the mode dial. Later cameras such as the PEN-F, E-M1 II, E-M1 III, etc. changed to having C1, C2, etc. on the mode dial and calling them Custom settings.

With my PEN-F, E-M10 II, and E-M1 II I often will have one Custom/MySet set so that the minimum shutter speed for Auto ISO and A mode is 1/20 second and another Custom/MySet set to have the minimum as 1/250 second. Without even looking I can very quickly switch the mode dial. For street photography this is great.

Some photos I am happy to be able to get a very low ISO because I am not concerned about too slow a shutter speed. In that case what I am photographing is not moving, but other times I want to ensure my shutter speed doesn't get too slow. While walking around I keep the camera on the Custom/MySet with 1/250 so that I can react quickly, if necessary. But, if I stop to take a photo of something such as an interesting door, building, etc. in lower lighting I can switch to the 1/20 setting to allow the shutter speed to go below 1/250 and also get a lower ISO. And then if while doing that I suddenly see someone or something interesting that requires immediate change I can in less than 1 second change the mode dial back to the 1/250 minimum shutter speed setting and I can do it without even taking my eye off the subject.

This change to having only one Custom mode on the mode dial in many of the newer cameras is the main reason I have not bought one. Now the only current models that have multiple Custom settings on the mode dial are the OM-1, E-M1 III, and E-M1X. Older cameras such as the E-M1 II, PEN-F, E-M10 II, E-M10, E-M5 II, and E-P5 had it though.

I often adjust and change my custom settings depending on what I am doing.

Henry Falkner said:

Jeeter001 said:

I almost always re-program mine for each event, travel, photo outing, whatever ...

Click to expand...

And that is precisely the procedure that alarms the person I have worked with for 22 years. It gives her the conviction that I don't understand my gear.

Henry

Click to expand...

But every event is different and you want to tweak assumptions based on experiences too. And I'm sure you are not using the same gear for 22 years. It could be you are more dynamic of photog than she!

john isaacs said:

Bassam Guy said:

john isaacs said:

Bassam Guy said:

JoiseyM43 said:

I consider myself to be moderately skilled enthusiast. I use my gear for a fairly wide range of situations i.e. documenting places I’ve traveled; people, mostly family on vacations; holiday gatherings; i dabble with birds and wildlife as well.

I’d like to get a feel for how other folks configure their cameras for quick use using the Custom Modes. I’m looking for general level settings, not necessarily a deep dive into the menus.

Realizing that whatever you maybe shooting, your camera may have different numbers of custom modes on your dial and that’s ok. Not being that familiar with anything other than Olympus/OMDS, I’m not sure what Panasonic or other manufacturers offer in the way of Custom Modes, but if appropriate to your camera I’d be happy to see your responses.

My basic questions are:

1. What camera are you using
2. If you could label the settings (instead of Cx) what would they say…birds, people…landscapes, etc.
3. For each Custom Mode what are the base settings for Mode(P,A,S,M), AF Mode, Metering Mode, Drive Mode, Subject Detection, Auto ISO (y/n), Auto White Balance (y/n), AF Target
4. Do you allow the camera to save changes you make while shooting in custom modes

Mine:

I’m using an OM1 now (4 custom modes). I also have an EM1 Mark ii (3 Custom Modes)

C1 - Still Images/Landscapes

Aperature Priority, SAF, Evaluative, Single Shot SIlent, No Subject, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Individual Target

C2 - People

Shutter priority (kids), CAF, Evaluative, Single Shot Silent, Face Detect no eye, Auto ISO-Y, Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C3-Birds

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Silent Sequential (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Switch setting 2 for ISO Front dial), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

C4-Pro Capture

Manual, CAF, Evaluative, Pro Capture (low), Bird Detect, Auto ISO-No (Same Switch Setting), Auto WB-Y, Med Box

Yes, I allow the camera to save changes I make in custom modes. I find that I will turn the camera off and on while shooting in the the same scenario and I’d rather change it back once when Im done. (yes I’ll forget occasionally)

Thanks for your input!!

Happy New Year,

Dan

Click to expand...

What I usually have loaded onto my E-M1 III:
C1 - P General: can do most things reasonably well and what is loaded into the PASM dial positions.
C2 - A People: groups, portraits, and speeches (when work demands)
C3 - S Fast stuff: sports, cars, snail races
C4 - M Still stuff: macro, landscape

Sure wish I could change a C modes' exposure mode (PASM) via a button :-(

I have tailored the ProCap L & H settings in each mode to suit that mode so have no specific "Pro Cap" custom mode (various Max FPS & Pre Shutter Frames. Frame Count Limiter always off).

I couldn't use labels unless they were re-usable and couldn't be lost because I have sets saved for specific needs that aren't currently loaded into the camera.

Click to expand...

I recall the custom setting to PASM and change modes as needed. If I wanted to change it permanently, I'd just save it back.

Click to expand...

That is the exact PITA I want to avoid

Click to expand...

Well, you can't avoid it.

Click to expand...

That is the exact reason I said "wish"

Jeeter001 said:

Henry Falkner said:

Jeeter001 said:

I almost always re-program mine for each event, travel, photo outing, whatever ...

Click to expand...

And that is precisely the procedure that alarms the person I have worked with for 22 years. It gives her the conviction that I don't understand my gear.

Henry

Click to expand...

But every event is different and you want to tweak assumptions based on experiences too. And I'm sure you are not using the same gear for 22 years. It could be you are more dynamic of photog than she!

Click to expand...

Thanks for coming back. She started modelling in the film days (when I started my photography). Camera settings available were: Shutter, aperture and focus. She still expects to be the focus of attention.

Now it is her who asks for photo sessions right now! So I leave my camera in a setting that can be picked up and can be used right now!

Two months ago she was asked to write an article for a collector magazine. I was the camera operator - she did the composition of the collector items, her pose with them, and the cropping of the pictures. She got everything right. The magazine editor selected the picture she liked best - and left her text (dictated to me) unchanged.

The above is just one reason why I tolerate her dictating my camera procedure.

I have a suspicion that the guys who set up the Olympus E-EM10 II were hermits, and that the guy who coordinated the design of the E-M10 IV is married to a model.

Henry

Henry Falkner said:

I have a suspicion that the guys who set up the Olympus E-EM10 II were hermits, and that the guy who coordinated the design of the E-M10 IV is married to a model.

Henry

Click to expand...

The E-M10 Mk2 represents the end of the firmware era where everything imaginable was accessible and adjustable/configurable.

The E-M10 Mk4 represents the response to the noise that "the menus are too complicated".
.