Steps to Better Digital Photography

For the New Camera User

This a step by step process to learn and practice the key features of your digital camera. You may have more or less features than shown, these are the most important to master in the beginning. Move to the next step only when you have mastered your current step level. If and when you get to your goal of proficiency, stop and enjoy.

1. In the beginning take all photos in the Automatic Mode

2. Review each photo for:

Did I get all or more or less than I wanted in this photo?

Is the subject evident and in focus?

Do I need to retake the photo?

Did I use flash correctly? Would Fill Flash have made a difference?

Always use Step 2: Review after each step as you progress. It insures you get the photo you want and it reinforces your knowledge and confidence. This is a good technique to always use.

3. Learn how to set the Flash functions: Automatic, On, Off, and red eye reduction.

4. Use Scene Modes.

5. Use White Balance settings for the available light, if in doubt use Average WB.

6. Use Exposure Compensation.

If the image is too dark when you review it, use positive exposure values. If too light, negative values. Remember to reset when you change the subject.

7. Use Manual Settings: Aperture and Shutter priority settings.

Read your Users Manual before you begin each new step and master each step before moving further.

Practice, practice and more practice to build confidence. You want this to become an automatic process. If you do, youπll be rewarded with good photos.