Taking photos to include subject and background

[erenales]

Before I ask, please know that I am new at photography and saving money to go to classes!

What settings would a person typically use to take photos to capture both the background and subject?

I thought it's based on the aperature. I know dropping the aperature blurs the background. So I increase it then my subject is underexposed. Then I use a flash for the subject and wash out the backgroung. Is it possible to do what I am aiming for?

Or do I take 2 photos and layer them?

I'm obviously such a newb.

Thanks in advance for you input.

[elysium]

Before I ask, please know that I am new at photography and saving money to go to classes!

What settings would a person typically use to take photos to capture both the background and subject?

I thought it's based on the aperature. I know dropping the aperature blurs the background. So I increase it then my subject is underexposed. Then I use a flash for the subject and wash out the backgroung. Is it possible to do what I am aiming for?

Or do I take 2 photos and layer them?

I'm obviously such a newb.

Thanks in advance for you input.You are on the right lines. Increasing or stopping down the lens will require the camera to draw in more light so if shooting manual for example. If you increase your aperture, you need to allow for a slower shutter speed or increasing the ISO.

What I would recommend is before classes, grab yourself a book by Brian Peterson, Understanding Exposure. Will make a lot of sense and give you a better understanding how to optimise your camera.

[erenales]

Cool thanks.

[PhotosGuy]

Welcome to POTN!

Try this out in manual mode: First set the f-stop & shutter speed you need. Then adjust the ISO. Need an exposure crutch? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=89123)

Why manual?
How the subject affects the exposure & why manual keeps me worry free: Post #47 (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=5191658&postcount=47)

This may help, too: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=414088

[erenales]

This is awesome info!!!

Thanks PhotosGuy!