Take Better Family Photos

Camera Symbols

Point-and-shoot photography is supposed to be simple, and knowing what the symbols on your digital camera mean will make it simpler.

• The icon of a flower signals the macro mode. It allows your camera to focus very closely.
• The lightning bolt icon controls the flash—either on, off or automatic when it senses limited light.
• The icon that looks like a clock is the self-timer mode.
• The "+/-" button allows you to override your camera's automatic exposure settings, to correct photos that are too light or too dark.
• The icon that looks like stacked photos allows you to take rapid-fire photos.