Automatic exposure setting

Automatic exposure setting
A system that automatically sets correct exposure by linking a camera’s exposure meter with the shutter or aperture or both.

Often the most intermediate exposure is obtained by aiming the camera in a direction perpendicular to one's shadow, using an automatic exposure setting (as if this were a single photo), and then manually using that setting for all photographs.

Exposure compensation dial. Allows you to over ride automatic exposure settings. Probably easier and quicker to switch to manual if you can.
Mirror lock up. You would be so lucky ! ...

Auto-Exposure lock (AE-L). Locks an automatic exposure setting in the camera's memory.

This explains why your camera will tend to blur indoor photos on the automatic exposure settings when you shoot without a flash.

See also: Manual, Exposure setting, Focus, Automatic exposure, Lens