Eva Wilson's post here: Just got a new digital camera! got me thinking.
Many people, when they buy a new camera, feel like they should should read through the camera manual from cover to cover. It always seems like it would be a great idea, but mostly I think it just makes your eyes tired and your head hurt.
So, let me propose some ideas for Getting Acquainted With A New Camera.
1. First of all, as soon as the battery is charged up, set the camera on FULL AUTO and go take a bunch of photos. The photos can be of anything, your own home or office, your pets, whatever. The idea is just to get the feel of the camera, its size and weight, the feel of the shutter button.
2. Second, think of one simple function to try. I usually go with Exposure Compensation. (Which is the way you telll the camera to "make it a little lighter" or "make it a little darker".) Go to the manual, and read how to set Exposure Compensation. On the Sony Alpha, (and on most DSLRs) while in Program mode, you press the +/- button while turning the main front dial.
As you turn the main dial, the Exposure Compensation pointer will move up or down on your LCD screen.
Shoot some photos at various Exposure Compensation settings.
3. Pick something else to figure out. Maybe this time go for changing the ISO speed. Look up in the manual how to do, make the settings on the camera, shoot some photos.
4. Pick another thing to figure out. Maybe using one of the preset modes. Read that page in the manual, take the camera out and try it. Etc., etc., etc. (Don't try to experiment with everything in one day.)
5. Read all the great stuff here in Photography Group: Photography 101 ~ List of All Tutorials
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