Shooting flexibility – Fv mode?
Flexible Priority mode may be the only exposure mode you will ever need…
Flexible Priority (Fv mode) was the first significant new creative zone exposure mode in decades. Introduced with the EOS R, it’s now a standard mode on R-series cameras and also on the EOS M6 Mk II. It’s time to learn what the Fv mode is, and how it could be the only exposure mode you need for creative work.
Flexible Priority derives its name from the way you determine the balance of control you take and how much you allow the camera to help you. There are four individual parameters to choose; shutter speed, aperture, ISO and exposure compensation.
By default, exposure comp is zeroed, and the other three are automatically set based on the meter reading of the scene. There are two controls used to select the parameter and change the value of it. The main dial next to the shutter changes value, and the quick control dial is used to switch from one parameter to another, indicated by half circular cog. With Fv you can switch the currently controlled parameter back to auto, or even all of the parameters. The Canon EOS R and RP have the crosskeys on the back of the camera assigned to do this by default.
When you want to have direct control of aperture you select aperture and choose the f-stop. In effect making Fv mode a clone of Av mode with Auto ISO. What Fv adds is the ability to reset all four parameter to automatically determined ones, or choose another to take control of. Select a specific shutter speed and now you’re controlling shutter and aperture for depth of field and subject movement control. You’ve moved on from Av to manual exposure with auto ISO, yet haven’t touched the mode dial.
If you find that you do change modes while taking photos, Fv mode is a good alternative to every mode the camera offers. Photographers that primarily use manual exposure may find it easier to use Manual mode with separate control dials for shutter, aperture and ISO values. Program or Aperture Priority users should note that the minimum shutter speed with auto ISO is not followed when using Fv mode.