ssheldo

I am very new to photo blogs. I have been using a Canon Elph and recently got a new (used) Canon SX10 IS that was recommended for my upcoming African Safari. I have been studying and have grasped the concepts of ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed but know I will not have enough time (2 weeks) to learn to adjust all the proper settings at the proper time. Other than just using 'auto', any suggestions as to settings? Some one said to use 'bracketing'. ??

Thank you for any thoughts.

St3v3M Loc: 35,000 feet

Welcome to UHH

SportsMom Loc: Texas

if its fast action, use the sports setting...

that is the little running man on the dial.

I also like to punch up the color by using the vivid setting so the photos need less editing afterward. Sometimes its a little hard to figure out how to change this, but good luck!

ssheldo

I tried using the sports setting at an indoor rodeo and everything was all blurry. I was so disappointed that I stopped trying for a while. Now I think I should have used specific settings like shutter speed, etc. But what happens when you want to take a regular picture - do you have to keep stopping and changing the settings. Sorry to be so dense!

SportsMom Loc: Texas

indoor photography can be very hard. My sons played basketball and I about drove myself crazy trying to get the best shots...

The sports function would be best for outdoor stuff (like her African Safari).

I am no expert, but I would say that if you wanted to do indoor stuff with fast action like a rodeo, you need a large aperture with attention to the white balance. I think a fixed lens wide open might do the trick, but I would be curious to see what others say here...

Jakebrake Loc: Broomfield, Colorado

If it was me, going on and African Safari, I would stay in "auto" and learn the camera upon my return. I wouldn't want to take the chance of missing a great shot if I was in the wrong mode.

Jakebrake Loc: Broomfield, Colorado

Oops, welcome as well.

abby Loc: Tampa, Florida

Welcome from Tampa!

I agree with Jakebrake - use Auto on your trip and learn more about the camra when you return.

gwong1 Loc: Tampa, FL

Sandy, I see you are hiding in Florida. Welcome from Sarasota. As suggested use auto for important shots, and play with settings for other less important or duplicate shots, I would suggest starting in Aperture mode, remember large aperture equals large depth of field (most everything in focus depending on Aperture setting) and small aperture equals small DOF (blurred background). Where are you going? I am going to Tanzania in August. Please post some images upon arrival. Enjoy and good luck shooting. Gary

ssheldo

Thanks, and hubby says 'Semper Fi' right back at 'cha!

ssheldo

Thanks - everybody has been so helpful. Nice to see the same advice from different people. We're in Jacksonville.

ssheldo

Hope to have some pictures of the trip that I can share.

ssheldo

Good advice - thank you. Tanzania June 6 for 10 days. Have you been? Working on our 'bucket list'.

gwong1 Loc: Tampa, FL

No going to Tanzania at the end of August for 12 days. Can you PM me when you get back and share information? Have a great trip, bucket list item for me as well. Thanks, Gary

Fly'n Fish Loc: Jacksonville, Florida

I've been to Tanzania and would like to comment on your interests. I went on line and looked at the specs for the SX10 as reviewed by CNET, a very good source of information. I would suggest trusting the Automatic setting to cover 98% of what you'll be shooting on your safari from the touring vehicle. They are diesel engine powered and tend to vibrate at idle when stopping to take photos. The stabilization feature will help,, but on long shots you may want to support your camera with a bean bag. Also, I suggest using the eye level view finder to compose your photos. The screen may be hard to see in bright daylight and it uses a lot of battery life. On that thought, you may want to get a car charger if you're using rechargeable batteries,as there are only electrical outlets at the lodges. Another tip is after each game drive clean the camera, as it very dusty on the unpaved roads. When shooting with the telephoto at max, increase the ISO to increase your shutter speed. If you have any questions I'd be happy to attempt to answer them. If your camera has a video setting use it. It gives life to the animals in motion during the migration. Next time I return I will have dedicated video camera as well as my still cameras.attempt