XSi Advise
Jan 11, 2012 12:10:55 #
richard
Loc: Mamaroneck, NY
I just purchased a used XSi with the 18-55mm IS lens.
I would like some advise as to which way to set up the camera.
An I better off using "one shot", "AI Focus" or "AI Servo"
How do you check the number of accuations?
Can you explain the Picture Style, which would be the best for me to start off with?
I've been reading about the nifty 50 1.8, will it serve much purpose, because the 18-55 covers the same mm, other than it's a faster lens?
Sorry for so many questions.
I would like some advise as to which way to set up the camera.
An I better off using "one shot", "AI Focus" or "AI Servo"
How do you check the number of accuations?
Can you explain the Picture Style, which would be the best for me to start off with?
I've been reading about the nifty 50 1.8, will it serve much purpose, because the 18-55 covers the same mm, other than it's a faster lens?
Sorry for so many questions.
Jan 11, 2012 12:33:33 #
Old Timer
Loc: Greenfield, In.
On this Canon it is not easy check the actuation. I have that same camera and did not get what I wanted from the manual that came with. As for the use of the camera you go with picture number. I think it starts over 10,000. I have had good luck with mine and satisfied with the quality of pics. Start out on auto and check your settings, make notes of them, then go to aperture priority, which is mark as av. using the settings similar from auto. Practice using them settings use AEB in fine tuning, the go shutter, manual or other modes. I purchased a book by Katherine Lowery, by Wiley Publishing that is well written and easy to understand that will walk you through ever thing. I think this camera does an exceptional job for the bucks. As for the focus in depends on what your shooting. Your manual will explain that, I usually leave it A1.
Jan 11, 2012 12:44:38 #
richard
Loc: Mamaroneck, NY
Thanks for getting back to me. I think I got a pretty decent deal.
Camera, Tiffen 3 lens filter kit with case, a wide angle/macro (screw into the lens ad on), a camera case, plus the CD and cords, charger, and an extra battery, card reader, a 8 GB Transcend class 6 card.
I paid $290.00 for everything. The camera appears to be in excellant condition.
Camera, Tiffen 3 lens filter kit with case, a wide angle/macro (screw into the lens ad on), a camera case, plus the CD and cords, charger, and an extra battery, card reader, a 8 GB Transcend class 6 card.
I paid $290.00 for everything. The camera appears to be in excellant condition.
Jan 11, 2012 12:54:33 #
Old Timer
Loc: Greenfield, In.
You got a good deal. If you PM me I can help with some of your problems. It is not easy to answer a question without knowing the particulars of the problem. If you got the manual read it over and over. I would encourage you to get manual for that specific camera as it will tell you a lot that you did not even know about. Just practice and shoot and shoot and practice. A good starter camera.
Jan 11, 2012 12:55:18 #
Lupane
Loc: Gainsville, Ga.
If there is a Barnes and Noble store in your neighborhood, check out "Canon XSi for Dummies"or other books specifically written for the camera. It is one way of learning quickly about the camera.
Jan 11, 2012 13:40:27 #
richard
Loc: Mamaroneck, NY
I have the manual and I downloaded it to my computer. But I am lazy and haven't read it yet. I will start reading it on the rain days when I can't go out.
I'll get back to you with specific questions as I go along trying to understand. I was just looking for a quick set up to get started.
I'll get back to you with specific questions as I go along trying to understand. I was just looking for a quick set up to get started.
Jan 11, 2012 20:28:16 #
You also asked about the nifty-50 and if it was worth it. The answer depends on what you are going to shoot and your expectations of the picture with / without flash. The nifty-50 will allow you to shoot pics in lower light situations without needing the flash, and the consensus is that on-camera flash is not flattering in most pics. The downside ... if it is a downside ... is that you can't zoom in or out like you can with the 18-55 lens, so if you can't frame the shot YOU have to move to get everything in the pic. I have the nifty-50 cuz I do a lot of indoor theatrical dress rehearsal shots and actor/model headshots, and I need a fast (low light) lens. Don't know what you shoot or if you "need" a fast lens or not. Your use is what will determine whether or not it is "worth it".
Jan 11, 2012 21:18:12 #
richard
Loc: Mamaroneck, NY
Thank you for your opinion on the nifty 50. I will be taking pictures of my grandchildren playing indoors and out plus some outdoor nature shots. Being that it doesn't cost that much I think I will get one in the near future. I will check out craigslist to see who's selling one. Eventually I will also want a telephoto lens.
Jan 11, 2012 21:40:20 #
Get Magic Lantern Guide DVD for your particular camera. It will not only cover each and every button and setting on your camera, but will also include another DVD on taking great photos.
All step by step and easy to understand. Well worth having
All step by step and easy to understand. Well worth having
Jan 11, 2012 22:10:54 #
Jan 11, 2012 22:50:16 #
iresq
Loc: Annapolis MD
Um, you asked questions about your camera before reading the manual? Wouldn't it make more sense to ready the manual first then concentrate on any remaining questions?
Jan 11, 2012 23:49:00 #
richard
Loc: Mamaroneck, NY
Sure would, I intend to start reading it over this coming weekend. I've been busy and was looking for a short cut in the mean time.
Jan 12, 2012 07:06:17 #
I have had the Xsi for about 2 years now and I am getting really comfortable with it and like the results. It does take some time. As you progress, you'll also want to add accessories but for now, I would HIGHLY recommend reading through the manual with the camera right next to you so you can actually feel and touch what they are explaining. I would also recommend the book, "The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D Companion" by Ben Long. (I've included a link below) Again, if you do get this book or something similar, always have the camera next to you when reading and actually try out the features as you read. I would just sit in my living room and read the book and snap pictures of the opposite wall to practice. Lastly, stick close to this site! There is a wealth of information and a bunch of talented folks who are willing to share their experiences and knowledge for FREE. I hope this helps a bit. Enjoy your new camera. :)
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-Rebel-450D-Companion/dp/0596520867/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326370022&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-Rebel-450D-Companion/dp/0596520867/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326370022&sr=8-1
Jan 12, 2012 10:13:39 #
I own the XSi, and took some worthy pictures with it during my early learning curve. Let me suggest you consider attending a workshop for beginners, to become familiar with the workings of a DSLR.
For now, until you know more, sticking with the lens you have will not only save you money but also educate you for the right lens purchase later.
Do yourself a favor, and gain an early functional understanding of aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. This Web site may help:
http://www.cameraporn.net/2007/12/24/aperture-iso-and-shutter-speed-the-good-kind-of-threesome/
This interesting Web site helps you learn the operational aspects of a DSLR without a camera:
The SLR Camera Simulator: http://camerasim.com/camera-simulator.html
Good luck.
For now, until you know more, sticking with the lens you have will not only save you money but also educate you for the right lens purchase later.
Do yourself a favor, and gain an early functional understanding of aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. This Web site may help:
http://www.cameraporn.net/2007/12/24/aperture-iso-and-shutter-speed-the-good-kind-of-threesome/
This interesting Web site helps you learn the operational aspects of a DSLR without a camera:
The SLR Camera Simulator: http://camerasim.com/camera-simulator.html
Good luck.
Jan 12, 2012 13:45:06 #
An I better off using "one shot", "AI Focus" or "AI Servo"
Depends if your shooting action or not. servo for autofocusing during action shot sequences.
How do you check the number of accuations?
don't know.
Can you explain the Picture Style, which would be the best for me to start off with?
these are settings for in camera processing for jpegs. I shoot raw and this dose not effect me I process my own photos in Adobe Camera Raw
I've been reading about the nifty 50 1.8, will it serve much purpose, because the 18-55 covers the same mm, other than it's a faster lens?
Nifty 50 is a great prime lens that will take sharper images with more contrast and saturation.
Depends if your shooting action or not. servo for autofocusing during action shot sequences.
How do you check the number of accuations?
don't know.
Can you explain the Picture Style, which would be the best for me to start off with?
these are settings for in camera processing for jpegs. I shoot raw and this dose not effect me I process my own photos in Adobe Camera Raw
I've been reading about the nifty 50 1.8, will it serve much purpose, because the 18-55 covers the same mm, other than it's a faster lens?
Nifty 50 is a great prime lens that will take sharper images with more contrast and saturation.
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