Skill Building for Newbies

[Paddy]

Hey guys,

Just started flicking the switch over to manual and alot to learn!

Have been doing alot of reading and somewhere suggested that you do a basic student technique where you line up three objects, at different distances then take a photo with only one in focus at a time.

Is there any other exercises you have heard of/done yourself that really help us newbies to get to know our camera?

[Paddy]

and I just found the learning plan... apologies

[tanz]

Yep, go through the learning plan and all the other info in the NTP section in the library, and also check out the threads in this NTP forum as there are challenges that will help you learn as well :)

[Noel Villegas]

Hi Paddy,
Welcome to both of us. Im new to this site.

Regarding your question, I would suggest that you do the following:
1. Get familiar with your camera.
2. Learn to photo composition first before even pressing the shutter of your camera. You'll be surprised when you learn the basic composition and technique like rules of thirds, using lines, texture, form and shape and likewise the quality of light in the scene; you are taking photos that are quite ready for competition :)
3. When you decide to use your camera, Use the Presets first and understand them.
Once you know the reason behind presets, start learning aperture, shutter speed and ISO.
4. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY.... PRACTICE, practice and PRAKTIS more.

Happy shooting,
Noel

[InspireMe]

Thanks Noel,
Thanks a really helpful post. I have been using my camera for 3 years and still haven't managed to get the time to actually set all the stuff myself. I rely mostly on the presets for a purpose and generally get good results. I still have to take 100 pic to get a cracker - maybe that's normal?
Anyway, thanks again.
Susanne

[Kym]

Susanne ... Use the Force Plan!! ;) Learning Plan Overview