I usually use Auto and the lowest 4:3 setting (I don't see any reason to go to 13MPX if I'm not printing posters, but I don't like that the 16:9 mode takes even more out of the image than 4:3). HDR mode I use only when I want to capture something very contrasting (a tunnel leading to very bright scenary or between two mountains and such). But usually Auto should do just fine. Oh, just remember to switch to Sports if you want really quick photos without motion blur; the shutter on this thing is slow, and even slower on Auto, so you're best bet is Sports mode or Burst Mode.