boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

Basically, whatever the camera says is the "right" exposure, say f-5.6 take additional shots at f-4as well as f-8. And chosing the "best" result.

Aeneas Loc: Somers, NY

I suggest that you try using a circular polarizing filter. Twist its ring till you get the contrast you want.

bdk Loc: Sanibel Fl.

y suggestion is, check with your local school and see if they have adult education classes. Specifically photography classes.
You'll learn so much, things you never thought of , things you wont understand but will as you get better.
I take them all the time, The last class I took I knew more then the teacher, (in some areas of photography). He was a portrait photographer , swhen the teacher says that my wildlife pix are much better than his, is a good feeling.

nan123 Loc: Southern york PA

Thanks for the input

Shootist Loc: Wyoming

I almost envy you in that you are beginning what can be a very fulfilling adventure. As any commentator here will tell you photography is a lot like golf. You can get the basics down pretty quickly but to master the game is a lifetime for most of us. In the process of learning you get to make some pretty awesome shots but consistency takes a lot longer. To top it off just when you think you have it all under control something happens that forces you to dive back in and learn some more. Do not get discouraged and do not fall into the trap that you always need a new and better piece of equipment. Some very wonderful photography was done with pin hole cameras (basically a box with a piece of film taped on one side and a pinhole opposite. Master your present camera before making the decision to spend money on more advanced models. Remember that it is mostly the person behind the camera that makes a good photo, not so much the equipment.

imp by mike Loc: Minnesota/Wisconsin/North Carolina

One thing not mentioned are filters. When shooting landscape including clouds & blue sky, you want a polarizer (CP for digital). It's at it's strongest 90 degrees from the sun, but you'll learn that as you play with it. (Too bad I can't include examples.)
You can also play with the "- EV" settings to make things darker & more intense; just don't go too far.

Kalskag2

It's easy to blow out the clouds; I've found that a one stop underexposure may be necessary. For landscapes with clouds I'll take a quick test shot and then check my blinkies to see whether a revision is necessary. I'll also shoot in RAW which gives me more latitude to correct the exposure during the editing process if need be.