What do aperture, shutter speed, and ISO collectively control in photography?

Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are fundamental components of the exposure triangle in photography, collectively governing the exposure of an image.

Aperture refers to the size of the opening in the lens through which light enters. A wider aperture allows more light to hit the sensor, while a smaller aperture allows less light. This not only affects brightness but also impacts depth of field, which determines how much of the image is in focus.

Shutter speed dictates how long the camera’s shutter remains open to allow light to reach the sensor. A fast shutter speed captures quick movements clearly by allowing only a small amount of light in for a very short duration, while a slow shutter speed lets in more light for a longer period, which can create motion blur or smooth out moving subjects.

ISO measures the sensitivity of the camera's sensor to light. A lower ISO setting is less sensitive to light and is suitable for bright conditions, while a higher ISO increases sensitivity, making it preferable for low-light situations. However, higher ISO can also introduce noise or graininess to the image.

Together, these three settings allow photographers to manipulate exposure, achieving the desired brightness, contrast, and detail in various lighting situations. Mastery over these elements enables photographers to successfully influence the