 BetterPhoto Member |
$1,300 digital SLR, I don't know how to use... Okay, last night I went out a bought a $900 Olympus EVOLT E-500. I'm very satisfied. But I have one big dilema, I'm new to photography and this is my first camera and I have no clue whatsoever on the basic function of a camera. I am leaving tomorrow for travel and wanted to use the camera on my road trip but obviously that will be impossible if I can't even set the function or take a damn photo. I am very serious about this path, and am starting classes early next year 'cause there is no way I can learn this on my own--- I don't think. What can you guys tell me? Have you had the same problems? And is it a good idea to go to a specialized camera store with my camera and ask for just basic set-up advice (because this was my plan)? Thank you, everyone. Darja
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Charlotte K. Shosey |
Darja I too purchased a new camera... Nikon D70 though. I didnt think I could ever begin to understand it all. Your camera comes with a book, that gives all the details. Study it good. What I was told is to set my camera on automatic for everything, then go from there. Look in the index in the camera book for autofocus etc. Practice handling the camera with that. You will notice it takes really great pictures with that alone. I am wanting to start classes myself, but have to wait until around the first of the year as well. Not sure what class to begin with though. Good Luck and have fun
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Justin G. |
I usually refrain from giving this advice but the best thing since you're just starting out is find the little green square on the settings dial (or find the function called "auto"). This will do everything in the camera for you until you learn the basics. While on your trip read your manual and you should learn a lot. And the thing about digital is that when you read somethign and try it, you can see what's going on. You'll be alright, just set the camera on auto while on your trip! Have fun. Justin
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Peter M. Wilcox |
On the E-500 the mode you want is "P", for Program Mode, which will automatically set shutter speed and aperture. This will get you going with snapshots, and as you learn more about the camera you can use other modes and settings. Start taking shots and see what works - the beauty of digital is that is doesn't cost anything to experiment.
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Andy |
One advice. Make sure you locate the section in your manual that shows how to change the image resolution. The manufacturer default settings for the resolution of the image maybe only good for viewing on screen or email but not big enough for a decent 4x6 print. I will set it to maximum and fine jpeg. Also make sure you get enough memory (other than the one that came with the camera). HTH.
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Peter K. Burian |
One way to get a better feel for your camera is to read a review that explains what each button is for. See http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/olympuse500/ for the E500 and http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond70/ for the D70. Regards, Peter Burian, Instructor
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