Question by Jody: What basic camera settings should I use?
So I am just learning about my new camera and I often don’t know what scene option to pick. I have sports, beach, landscape, macro, etc,
As an example. I went on a very bright sunny day to take pictures of elephant seals from up on a cliff. I have to zoom in pretty close. Now should I have the settings on “pet” mode since they’re animals moving? Landscape to get the whole pic in focus? It’s so bright though so with deep shadows so maybe I need backlight correction mode? Or portrait mode since I am getting close ups of their faces. Can you help? I was at a loss but when I got home the pics were to bright a bit, deeper shadows than I wanted on the face. I have manual mode but I barely know how to use it.
You can see some of the problems I had here:
http://s163.photobucket.com/albums/t297/darkoceanstudios/?action=view¤t=321876_201111729996656_100002934923095_363021_51178017_o.jpg
Would appreciate advice.
Best answer:
Answer by selina_555
Bright sun and deep shadows are a problem even with a GOOD camera and even for experienced photographers.
However, in general, here is what to do to improve your photography:
Learn about your camera !!!!
Read your manual !!!! Read it several times, and practice in between. If you don’t have a book, download a new one from the manufacturer’s website. Try to move away from the auto modes (that includes the scene modes) – in time, with some learning, YOU will know better than a little camera does, and YOU will make better decisions than it can.
Attend a class, read some books, read/watch online tutorials.
The major camera manufacturers (like Canon, Nikon, Olympus etc) all have very useful sections on their website for learning about photography.
http://www.nikonusa.com/Learn-And-Explore/Nikon-School/index.page
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/oima_learn_center.asp
http://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/controller?act=HomePageAct
http://photographycourse.net/
Understanding at least the basic principles of photography (as well as being familiar with your camera) will enable you to make the most of your gear, and will make a HUGE difference to your images.
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