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Arsenal 2 Getting Started with Manual Mode
Arsenal 2 Getting Started with Manual Mode

How to use Arsenal 2's manual shooting screen

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Written by Arsenal
Updated over a week ago

Arsenal 2’s Manual Mode gives you complete control over the settings for your shot. If you are new to manual photography, we recommend starting with Smart Mode.

*Histogram available on iOS only.

Arsenal 2’s Manual Mode gives you complete control over the settings for your shot. If you are new to manual photography, we recommend starting with Smart Mode.

Get ready to shoot with Arsenal 2

Before shooting in Manual Mode, always make sure that:

  • Camera is powered on

  • Arsenal 2 is powered on

  • Camera is connected via USB cable to Arsenal 2

  • Camera can be set to most modes other than video or bulb at this time.

Open the Arsenal 2 app and swipe the mode slider at the very bottom of the screen to Manual. You can also swipe on the live view image to change modes as well.

If you prefer to shoot in Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority you can adjust your camera’s mode by tapping the current mode (usually “M” by default) on the right side of the screen. Note: Some cameras require turning a physical dial on your camera.

1. Enable Live View

Tap the Live View icon in the upper right corner of the app. Your camera’s live view will appear in the app.

2. Compose Your Shot

Once your mode is selected, adjust your settings for exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Tap the live view where you’d like the focusing to be set, and trigger the shot.

To change a setting, tap the default value (e.g. S 1/50 for shutter speed) to view the manual setting. Drag the slider left or right to change the value.

Arsenal 2 will adjust your camera as you change settings. On most cameras, you’ll see an accurate preview in live view. (Unfortunately, a few camera models auto-balance the live view. In this case, take a test shot to see the true exposure.)

3. Tap to Focus

If you want Arsenal 2 to control the focusing, make sure your lens is set to autofocus. Select a focus point by simply tapping on the live view image. A target square will appear to show the point you selected, and turn green once focused.

4. Trigger the Shutter

Press the shutter release button at the bottom of the screen to take a photo.

5. Review and Share Photos

Tap the thumbnail image in the lower right corner of the screen to preview your most recent photo. You can then swipe right to see previous shots.

To view the rest of the images in the Arsenal 2 Gallery, tap the Gallery icon in the upper right corner of the image review screen.

To share the photo tap the image you'd like to share, and click on the share icon. You can then choose your preferred destination, such as Instagram, Facebook, email, chat, or choose to save directly to your phone. When posting on social media, you can use the hashtag #withArsenal to share your photos with the Arsenal 2 community.

To save photos to your phone or the onboard Micro SD automatically set up your Photo Storage options.


Learn how to use the advanced stacking features in Manual Mode!

Still have questions? Our friendly support team will be happy to help!

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