Macro mode is ideal for capturing intricate details of tiny subjects. It allows you to get up close and personal, revealing the fascinating world of flowers, insects, and other small objects. By activating macro mode, you can unlock the hidden beauty that lies beyond the naked eye.

Of all the models we tested, the DeWalt laser level proved to be one of the easiest to set up and use. It features a magnetic back as well as a beam clamp for attaching to angle irons, though most of our tests involved setting it on a flat surface. The red laser was very bright and easy to see. The factor that pushed the DeWalt laser level to the top of the heap was its robust design. It’s not the largest laser level, but it is one of the heaviest and sturdiest, and the drop test left it largely unscathed. The only thing it really can’t do is project a 360-degree beam.

Testing the 93LCLS laser level revealed the Klein to be a powerful, sturdy, and reliable laser level. We found it very easy to see, and the plumb spot was faster to use than an actual plumb bob or level. The setup was also very simple. The one con with this particular level is that considering its price, it should offer a 360-degree beam.

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Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer for some of the largest DIY and construction-related websites in the world. He also runs his own blog, RiddaBugs.com, which is a pest-control website that helps homeowners and renters choose their best pest-control options. He has a passion for building: Whether it’s a DIY project or an entire website, Tom loves creating something from the ground up, stepping back, and admiring a job well done.

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However, the area where the Huepar didn’t fare as well was in steadiness. During our tests, the laser wobbled more than the other models, which could potentially make the line less accurate, though it steadied when all movement ceased. It does feature plumb-spot indicators above and below, which is a nice and rare feature.

The key features Illig looks for in a laser level for his construction projects are “accuracy, self-leveling, strength of the laser (both brightness and projected distance), ease of use, height adjustment accessories, and number of planes (180 to 360 degree, right angle, vertical, horizontal, etc.).” We took this expert advice into consideration when choosing our top picks for testing.

Many laser levels with a self-leveling feature also lock the pendulum in place when not in use. This helps reduce the risk of calibration issues while transporting it, and it can help get the most out of a level.

Many cameras offer pre-defined colour presets such as Standard, Vivid, Natural, or Monochrome. Select the preset that best suits your desired colour representation. Standard usually offers a balanced colour rendition, while Vivid enhances saturation, and Natural provides a more subdued and realistic look.

As you embark on your photography journey, remember that practice and experimentation are key. Familiarise yourself with these digital camera settings and gradually incorporate them into your photography workflow. With time and patience, you will master the art of digital camera settings and capture breathtaking images that tell your unique story. Once you've mastered your digital camera's settings, why not dip your toes in post-production with some photo editing software?

This laser level from Huepar is an excellent choice for outdoor use. This is a highly visible model with a 360-degree laser, but it’s relatively inexpensive. It has an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for building decks, grading small sections of land, and installing siding.

Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes as well as his own pest control blog. He spent years working in the trades and industrial building maintenance.

If you have doubts about your laser level’s readings, you can double-check it by recalibrating the pendulum, the mechanism that allows a laser level to self-level. Many models will have internal buttons or controls for easy recalibration.

During our tests, we awarded points based on a rubric. The better the level performed on a specific test, the more points it won. After testing, we averaged the points for each model and used the results to determine the best categories and use cases for each laser level.

The best laser levels use different mounts and features to achieve this set-and-forget function. Some of the less expensive models might simply poke small pins into drywall for support. Other models will come with tripods or mounts that attach to metal studs or drop-ceiling tracks. When purchasing a laser level, consider its intended use and which mounting accessories might be necessary.

Whether it’s for DIY jobs or for professional use, laser levels are worth getting. For most purposes, they’re more than accurate enough, and the setup time and consistency can make short work of an otherwise long project.

Because laser levels project a line onto a surface for the user’s reference, it would stand to reason that the tests should revolve around each laser level’s accuracy. But they didn’t. Testing modern laser tools for accuracy is pretty much futile, as even the most affordable model is more accurate than the human eye can discern (particularly with a bubble level).

This budget-friendly laser level offers some features we really liked, including a stud finder and electrical wire detection. It also comes with a hanger that attaches to the wall with a tacklike pin. Once hung, the laser will self-level.

Shoppers who are looking for a level that can do it all and don’t mind spending quite a bit more on one of the best brands may want to consider the Bosch GLL3-330CG. This self-leveling model has a 360-degree horizontal plane laser and two 360-degree vertical plane lasers, providing a level line of reference for any job. The green laser has a working range of up to a 200-foot diameter, though this can be extended to 330 feet with the separate purchase of an LR8 receiver.

Whether it’s a spirit level or a high-tech laser model, the hallmark of any good level is accuracy. A laser level’s accuracy rating should be listed on the packaging or in the manual. As a rule of thumb, look for a model with less than ⅛-inch deviation at 30 feet for truly dialed-in results.

Some of the GLL3-330CG’s premium features are so subtle that they can actually go unnoticed. For example, this laser level monitors its battery life and adjusts the beam for optimal visibility. Its CAL Guard feature utilizes internal sensors to detect drops, high heat, and other faults that could mess with the unit’s calibration.

Focusing is a vital aspect of photography that can make or break your images. Understanding the different focusing modes and techniques can help you achieve tack-sharp photos.

Now, let's move on to another key setting – aperture. Aperture refers to the size of the opening in your camera's lens through which light enters. It plays a vital role in controlling the depth of field in your photos.

Whether it’s for DIY use or a professional jobsite, this line laser level from DeWalt has what it takes to get the job done. This laser features three self-leveling red beams (one horizontal line and two vertical dual-beam lasers) for leveling and lining up almost any project. It’s accurate to within ⅛ inch at 30 feet, and it also has a micro-adjust knob on the top that allows the user to dial in the beam’s perfect alignment.

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During our tests, the BDL190S served its purpose. It projected a perfectly self-leveled line to the left and right and steadied quickly. There was a section of the wall where the beam appeared to lighten, making it more challenging to see, but this is because there was a bow in the wall, and this effect is typical of wall-mounted laser levels.

A faster shutter speed freezes motion, allowing you to capture sharp images of moving subjects. Conversely, a slower shutter speed introduces motion blur, which can be creatively used to convey a sense of movement or capture long-exposure shots of landscapes or night scenes.

We also reached out to Ben Illig, a general contractor and owner of Illig Properties based in Edensburg, Pennsylvania, who uses laser levels on a regular basis. We wanted to get his insights on what our readers will want to consider when shopping for one.

Now that you have a grasp of the basic concepts, it's time to delve deeper into the various digital camera settings and understand how they can greatly impact the quality and creativity of your photos.

Photography is a fascinating art form that allows us to capture and preserve precious moments. With the advancement of technology, digital cameras have become more accessible and user-friendly, making it easier for beginners to dive into the world of photography.

In addition to white balance, your camera offers a range of colour settings that allow you to add warmth or coolness to your photos, enhance vibrancy, or create a vintage look. Experimenting with these settings can help you find your unique photography style.

Note: All of the following laser levels proved to be highly accurate, far beyond what we could check with a standard bubble level (though we did use a bubble level for extra verification several times during our tests). Also, each model except the Black+Decker model is tripod-compatible, and all of the pendulums locked in place except for the DeWalt model.

Before diving into camera settings, it's important to understand the different types of digital cameras available. From compact point-and-shoots to advanced DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, each type offers unique features and settings that cater to different photography styles and skill levels.

Choose the preset that matches the lighting conditions of your scene, or use a custom white balance setting by photographing a white or grey card in the same lighting conditions to create a reference point. Finally, review your images on the camera's LCD screen or computer to ensure accurate colour representation.

By adjusting the ISO, you have the power to capture stunning images even in challenging low-light conditions without sacrificing image quality. However, it's important to strike the right balance, as a higher ISO can introduce unwanted noise or graininess to your photos. Achieving the perfect ISO setting is like finding the sweet spot that allows you to capture breathtaking shots with incredible clarity and detail.

When doing construction or measuring in a large space, a laser level can help provide accurate lines to ensure even, level measurements. Laser levels are especially useful for aligning cabinets and plumbing, leveling floors, installing doors and windows, and measuring drop ceilings.

As you continue your journey in photography, mastering these camera settings will unlock a world of creative possibilities. The interplay between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed allows you to capture moments in ways that not only reflect reality but also transcend it, evoking emotions and telling stories through your photographs. So, grab your camera, venture into the world around you, and let your imagination soar as you explore the endless potential of these camera settings.

For these reasons, many professionals own both red and green lasers and use them for projects that play to their respective strengths.

For those who don’t need all the features available on top-of-the-line models, the Black+Decker BDL190S is a nice option at an affordable price. This isn’t the ideal laser level for a major project or renovation, but it will get the job done when striking level lines to hang pictures or shelves.

You are usually able to switch between both modes via a physical switch on your digital camera, often labelled 'MF' (manual focus) and 'AF' (auto-focus). Auto-focus will do the work for you to find a point of focus and ensure that it is sharp, however, if you opt for manual focus, it's up to you to decide what's in focus and how sharp it is.

To use white balance on your digital camera, start by accessing the camera's menu or settings. Look for the white balance option, usually represented by a symbol like a sun or light bulb. Selecting this option will provide you with a range of white balance presets such as Auto, Daylight/Direct sunlight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, or Incandescent.

During our tests, the Huepar proved to be a high-quality laser level, with a bright green beam and a helpful pulse mode. The 360-degree horizontal plane was also nice, particularly when we leveled a large outdoor area.

Learning camera settings is crucial for any aspiring photographer. It empowers you to have complete control over your photos, ensuring they turn out exactly as you envision. By understanding camera settings, you can overcome challenging lighting conditions, freeze fast-moving subjects, create beautiful bokeh effects, and much more.

While the usefulness of the horizontal and vertical beams is obvious, a 360-degree laser level’s practicality cannot be overstated. A 360-degree beam can help hang an entire room’s worth of pictures quickly and accurately, or it can help the user dig perfectly level sections of the yard. Also, for projects like drop ceilings, having the most accurate laser level on hand is critical to ensuring the strength of the finished product.

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For a professional-grade laser, the Klein Tools 93LCLS ticks most of the boxes and has some features that the other models don’t. It has both vertical and horizontal beams, but it also features a plumb-spot finder that projects a vertical beam, which we felt could be a real asset when installing conduit, piping, or drop ceilings. It also boasts several mounting options, including a magnetic mount with a 360-degree swivel and a specialized mount for drop-ceiling tracks.

After testing and with key considerations in mind, we chose the DeWalt DW089K 3-Beam Line Laser Level as our best overall pick for its easily visible red beams, self-leveling feature, micro-adjust knob, and accuracy within ⅛ inch at 30 feet.

Knowing when to use each focusing mode is essential for capturing stunning photographs. Auto-focus can be a lifesaver when you need to react quickly, while manual focus gives you the freedom to experiment and achieve the desired artistic effect.

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Understanding the different types of digital cameras available can help you choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you're a beginner looking for simplicity or an experienced photographer craving creative control, there's a digital camera out there that's perfect for you.

Instead, we analyzed other critical factors, such as how visible the laser lines appeared, how straightforward the levels were to set up, and how easy it was to adjust their different features. We also focused heavily on durability in our testing. We set up each level to compare its accuracy, beam intensity, and additional features. Then, because accidental drops are entirely possible during a project, we dropped the levels on the ground to test their durability. We dropped each one from the height of a sawhorse three times.

Your camera offers various shooting modes that are tailored for different photography scenarios. Understanding and harnessing these modes can make photography more exciting and effortless.

After making colour adjustments, take a few test shots to preview the results. Review the images on the camera's LCD screen to ensure the colours appear as desired. If needed, make further adjustments and repeat the process until you achieve the desired colour representation.

One of the most useful things about laser levels is they allow the user to work hands-free. Once set up, they’re designed to be left alone while the project continues, with the user referring to the laser line as a reference throughout.

Mirrorless cameras have gained popularity in recent years due to their compact size and advanced features. Unlike DSLRs, mirrorless cameras do not have a mirror mechanism, resulting in a smaller and lighter body. These cameras utilize electronic viewfinders or rear LCD screens to preview the image, providing real-time exposure and color information. Mirrorless cameras offer excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a wide range of lens options, making them a versatile choice for photographers who value portability without sacrificing performance.

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By playing around with the aperture of your digital camera, you can create images with a beautifully blurred background, drawing attention to your main subject, or capture photos with a sharp focus from the foreground all the way to the background. It's like having a magical tool that allows you to control the visual narrative of your photographs, adding a touch of artistry and storytelling.

Whether you're familiarising yourself with your new purchase or a camera that you've recently hired, understanding the inner workings of a digital camera can enhance your photography experience. By knowing how light is captured and converted into digital information, you can make informed decisions when adjusting camera settings to achieve the desired exposure, focus, and depth of field.

Mastering the art of focusing is an ongoing journey for photographers. It requires practice, experimentation, and an understanding of the technical aspects involved. However, once you grasp the fundamentals and develop your skills, you will be able to capture breathtaking images that truly showcase your vision.

Another important aspect to consider when it comes to focusing is the depth of field. Depth of field refers to the distance between the closest and farthest objects in your photo that appear in focus. By manipulating the camera's aperture, focal length, and subject distance, you can control depth of field to isolate your subject or capture sweeping landscapes with everything in focus.

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After we dropped the GLL3-330CG three times, it registered a calibration fault that required logging into the app to clear. This was more of a benefit than an issue as it was easy to clear and did warn of the shocks. Another thing we liked about this level is that it can be powered by different types of battery sources. You can power it with the rechargeable lithium-ion battery that comes included or with four AA alkaline batteries. The only drawback? While it is the best 360-degree laser level on this list, it’s a bit pricey.

Landscape mode is specifically designed for capturing vast landscapes, ensuring that every detail from the foreground to the background is in sharp focus. This mode simplifies the camera settings, making it easier for beginners to capture stunning landscape shots.

Getting the colours right in your photographs can be a game-changer. White balance and colour settings play a significant role in achieving accurate and pleasing colours in your images.

Bosch makes some of the best laser levels on the market, and the brand’s higher-end models are more accurate than most models.

Before delving into camera settings, it's important to have a solid understanding of how digital cameras work. These devices capture light through a lens and convert it into digital images. Digital cameras offer a plethora of settings that allow you to control and manipulate the image capture process, resulting in stunning photographs.

Compact point-and-shoot cameras are small, lightweight, and easy to use. They are ideal for casual photographers who want a simple and convenient way to capture everyday moments. These cameras usually have a fixed lens and limited manual controls, making them perfect for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free shooting experience.

However, understanding and utilising the various camera settings can be overwhelming for someone just starting out. In this beginner's guide, we will demystify the basics of digital camera settings and help you take your photography skills to the next level.

Ahead, learn what IlIig advised users to look for and find out how the following models earned a spot in this lineup of the best laser levels.

Having a cross-line laser level available within arm’s length at any time might seem like a luxury, but with the compact and affordable GLL 30 from Bosch, it can become a reality. This small laser level features vertical and horizontal red laser beams that are accurate to within 5/16 of an inch at a 30-foot distance. With its tiny footprint, it’ll easily fit in a tool bag or a tool box, ensuring it’s always easy to grab.

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Imagine a portrait where the subject is in sharp focus, while the background is beautifully blurred, creating a pleasing bokeh effect. This shallow depth of field draws attention to the subject, making them stand out from the surroundings. On the other hand, in landscape photography, you may want to capture every detail from the foreground to the distant horizon. In this case, a larger depth of field is necessary to ensure that everything is in sharp focus.

Unfortunately, the 93LCLS doesn’t provide a constant 360-degree plane, but the ability to swivel it on the mount while maintaining level helps to offset that shortcoming. The variety of mounting options makes it incredibly versatile.

Laser levels vary greatly in terms of features, ease of use, convenience, and accuracy. Before selecting a laser level, consider your needs and intended use to determine what type of beams you require.

Realistically, the Bosch cross-line laser level simply isn’t big enough to contain high-end internal hardware components, so it trades a bit of accuracy for its compact profile. However, we found no issues with its accuracy during testing, and it was very easy to set up. We liked that it came with a multipositional mount with a clamp for attaching to a variety of objects. Also, the laser has the ability to be positioned at any angle, something almost none of the other levels could do.

If picking the right laser level feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Let’s bring things back to level by answering some of the most frequently asked questions about laser levels.

The beam finder was a nice touch and appeared to work well. The downside of the Black+Decker level is that it requires the user to poke a small hole in the wall to mount it, which could be a deal-breaker for concrete or brick surfaces. Also, it only projects a horizontal line.

Illig also has some specific advice on using laser levels outdoors: “It’s challenging to see lasers outside, so if you’re looking for an outdoor model, you might want to consider one that has a sensor (known as a laser line receiver) that alerts you when the laser hits the receiver.”

The best laser levels on the market make leveling into a simple task. Most models with self-leveling technology use a laser on a pendulum in conjunction with magnets to provide stability. Once placed on a relatively flat surface, the pendulum takes over and achieves the final degree of level. This makes setting up fast and easy, especially if a reference point exists to register against.

Let's start by exploring the fascinating world of ISO in digital photography. ISO is a crucial setting that determines the sensitivity of your camera's image sensor to light.

It might not be obvious, but the colors a laser level emits make a big difference. There are two options—red and green—each with pros and cons.

If your camera allows customisation, you can adjust individual colour parameters like saturation, contrast, and sharpness. Use the camera's control dial or arrow buttons to increase or decrease these settings according to your preference. Keep in mind that excessive adjustments may result in unnatural-looking images.

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When it comes to capturing a perfect shot, the art of focusing plays a crucial role. It is the technique that brings clarity and sharpness to your images, allowing you to capture the essence of the subject in all its glory.

To access colour settings, look for a menu option related to image or picture settings. Within that section, locate the colour settings or picture style option (which may be represented by a symbol like a palette or a colour wheel).

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The Bosch laser level proved to be a serious piece of machinery during testing. It is highly accurate, with a maximum deviation of just 3/32 of an inch at 30 feet. The three 360-degree planes were easy for us to see and use.

On the other end of the spectrum, DSLRs (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) are favored by professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand maximum control and image quality. DSLRs feature interchangeable lenses, allowing photographers to select the perfect lens for each situation. These cameras offer advanced settings, such as manual exposure control, customizable autofocus, and high-speed continuous shooting, giving photographers the flexibility to capture any subject with precision.

Next, we come to shutter speed, a digital camera setting that has the power to freeze time or create mesmerizing motion blur. Shutter speed refers to the duration for which your camera's shutter remains open, determining how long the image sensor is exposed to light.

While the following laser levels vary in beam intensity, features, and use cases, each one passed our tests, even when the road got a little bumpy.

When light enters the camera through the lens, it passes through a series of elements that help focus and direct the light onto the image sensor. The image sensor, often a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, converts the light into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed by the camera's internal processor, which turns it into a digital image that can be stored on a memory card or displayed on a screen.

Portrait mode is perfect for capturing beautiful close-up shots of people. It uses a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field, resulting in a sharp subject and a beautifully blurred background. This mode brings out the best in portrait photography, making your subjects stand out. If you're looking for great photography backdrops for your portraiture, we've got you covered.

Modern digital cameras come with both manual and auto-focus options, each offering its own advantages. Auto-focus is convenient and works well in most situations, especially when you need to quickly capture a moment. However, manual focus provides you with more control over your images, allowing you to fine-tune the focus to your exact specifications. This level of control can be particularly useful in situations where the autofocus may struggle, such as low-light conditions or when shooting through obstacles.

Laser levels offer precision, reliability, and a measure of safety. Unlike traditional bubble levels, laser levels project a beam of light that serves as a reference point for various construction and DIY tasks. Whether you’re hanging pictures or tackling larger projects like deck construction, these devices streamline the process and help ensure a level plane.

White balance controls the colour temperature of your photos, ensuring that whites appear white under different lighting conditions. By adjusting white balance, you can eliminate the unwanted colour cast and achieve true-to-life colours in your images.

By adjusting the aperture, you can control the amount of light that reaches the image sensor and also influence the depth of field in your photos. A wider aperture (smaller f-number) allows more light to enter and creates a shallow depth of field, perfect for isolating your subject from the background. On the other hand, a narrower aperture (larger f-number) limits the amount of light and increases the depth of field, ensuring that both the foreground and background are in focus.

One of the most important features of any laser level is its beam orientation. There are models with up to three orientation planes: two vertical dual-beam lasers and one horizontal. One or more of those planes might be 360 degrees. Often, the more planes, the more expensive the level.

A self-leveling laser will typically give highly accurate results, much more precise than DIYers can achieve with a bubble level. The act of holding a bubble level perfectly and completely level is challenging, and determining whether the bubble is perfectly aligned in the capsule requires good eyesight.

With technology improving constantly, we wanted to see if today’s most popular laser levels would deliver the accuracy that DIYers and professionals demand. To do that, we tested the top models in our homes and on jobsites.

Laser levels project a fixed red or green beam of light from a diode to establish a level horizontal or vertical line. This line serves as a reference point for aligning and measuring with precision, making it an indispensable tool for all kinds of construction and DIY projects.

Every DIYer has different needs, and a high-end, expensive, heavy-duty laser level isn’t always a priority. For those who’d prefer something a bit more modest and affordable, this 360-degree self-leveling cross-line laser level from Skil is worth a look. It has all the features necessary, including horizontal and vertical lasers, as well as 360-degree coverage, but with a little less fit-and-finish look. The result is a capable yet minimalist laser level at a lower price, and it even comes with a tripod for setting it at any height.

By adjusting the shutter speed then, you can freeze fast-moving subjects in action, capturing every intricate detail with precision. On the other hand, you can also experiment with longer shutter speeds to create stunning long-exposure shots, where moving elements in your frame transform into graceful streaks of light, leaving viewers in awe of your artistic vision.

The Skil surprised us in our hands-on testing. We found it to be a highly capable light-duty model. For its price and intended use, it’s well-built and durable while being very simple to set up and use. It also steadied very quickly. While the tripod wasn’t of the highest quality, it was one of the only setups in the test that allowed for positioning the laser at an angle.

The Huepar outdoor laser level has two laser planes: a 140-degree vertical and a 360-degree horizontal. The green 360-degree laser is easy to see, even outdoors. It also has a 180-foot range, although we could only utilize that in the battery-saving pulse mode.

Understanding how depth of field works and how to manipulate it effectively can elevate your photography to new heights. It allows you to create images that convey a specific mood or tell a compelling story by controlling what is in focus and what is not.