Hello Reader !

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This is a fictional photography story.

I didn’t get hurt writing it.

Or did I?

Maybe, just a tad.

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See, I’ve been racking my brain trying to come up with an acronym for aperture.

Because let’s be honest… remembering how it works is one thing.

Explaining it?

That’s another beast entirely.

More on that in a second…

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First, I don’t know about you…

…but when I started photography, aperture confused the heck out of me.

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Big number = small opening?

Small number = big blur?

Why is it backwards?

Why is f/2.8 “bigger” than f/11?

And truth be told, even now…

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When someone asks me to explain aperture, I have to pause and double-check my brain before the words come out.

(Please tell me I’m not the only one who still does this.)

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That’s when I realized…

Maybe the trick isn’t just memorizing what aperture does.

It’s remembering what aperture allows.

So here’s a little acronym I cooked up for my own sanity... and maybe yours too.

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A.P.E.R.T.U.R.E.

A – Amount of light​
The aperture is an opening in the lens that controls how much light enters the camera.

It's one part of your Exposure equation.

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P – Physical size of the opening​
Measured in f-stops (like f/2.8, f/8), a lower number = wider opening = more light.

And yep, it’s a fraction... f/4 means 1 divided by 4. That’s why f/4 is bigger than f/11.

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E – Effect on depth of field​
Wider apertures (like f/2.8) give you that dreamy blur. Narrower apertures (like f/11) keep more in focus.

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R – Range of f-stops​
Every lens has limits. Some go down to f/1.4, others max out at f/22.

Check your lens specs to know what’s possible.

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T – Think creatively​
Use blur to guide the viewer’s eye.

Keep your subject sharp, let the background melt away.

It’s one of the best ways to make your subject pop.

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U – Use in Manual or Aperture Priority​
Manual mode? Great.

But honestly, Aperture Priority works beautifully... especially when you’re focused on creative decisions over full control.

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R – Real-world scenarios​
Portraits? Try f/2.8.

Landscapes? Try f/8-f/16.

Not rules... just reliable starting points.

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E – Exposure triangle​
Aperture, shutter speed, ISO.

Change one? You’ll likely need to adjust the others.

They’re a team. Learn how they play together.

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That’s aperture.

Not just a number… but a way to shape your image with intention.

Next time you're out with your camera, forget the numbers for a second.

Start with this...

1. How much of the scene should be in focus?
2. Do I want to isolate my subject or include the surroundings?

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Then dial in your aperture to match the mood.
Let it be a creative decision… not just a technical one.

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Have an awesome day!

Chris Parker

Parker Photographic

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P.S.

If you’re thinking, "Okay, but I shoot on Auto… will this really help me?"

Yes.

Even if your camera’s doing the work, knowing why it picks a certain aperture gives you more control... especially when the image doesn’t turn out like you hoped.

This isn’t about shooting like a pro.

It’s about creating with confidence... no matter where you’re starting.

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​P.P.S.

Want a deeper dive? Check out this detailed article I put together.

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