bingonut Loc: Cape Cod

I just bought a Canon EOS Rebel SL1/100D Camera, I m a beginner and trying to learn how to use my camera. I have books by David Busch dedicated to my camera that I have been reading.

I have a 18-55 lens and a 55-250 lens.

Does anyone have the same camera?

If so any tips about using it, is it a good camera for a beginner?

agilmore Loc: Baltimore

Nice camera. I have a Canon T3, similar but older.

Here is my suggestion, and what I am doing:
First, learn where the auto 'with' flash and auto 'with out' flash settings are. You can use these while learning the other settings. This will give usually produce good photos when taking pictures of family, friends, etc. when you need to take quick photos.

Second, begin learning about the other settings when you are able to take your time and don't have people waiting for you to click the shutter. These settings include aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual; and can be experimented with while taking photos of sunsets, macros, architecture, animals, etc. Eventually, these skills will enable you to take exceptional photos, taking you to a new level and put the 'wow' factor in your photos.

There are lots of other things to learn and have fun with, but I think that the above two items are going to be important for now because they will teach you the basics and at the same time let you enjoy your new camera.

P.S. Forgot to mention--visit uglyhedgehog.com often!

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

I have the same lenses and a T3i. In addition to the technical side, be sure to not neglect composition. Many good books and articles with tips. Even old library books written for film can help you create more pleasing, interesting compositions. A technically perfect image can still be boring :)

bingonut Loc: Cape Cod

Thanks for all your suggestions.

Will give them a try.

Chris

Go on youtube, Canon has many many tutorials that will go step by step with you through the different features.

f8shoot

I love this camera and use it with a Tamron 18-270 for travel because it is smaller and lighter weight.

bingonut Loc: Cape Cod

Thanks, I love it to, I am just learning how to use it, most of my shots are done on the automatic setting. I am starting to use other settings. Still not sure what I am doing. Been reading books dedicated to the Camera.

f8shoot

There is a CD you can purchase which tells you everything about the camera. Try to learn shooting aperture priority.

bingonut Loc: Cape Cod

Thanks, I have the cd and have watched it several times.

Armadillo Loc: Ventura, CA

bingonut,

Since you did not mention the Canon User Manual I have to presume you don't have one. You can go to the Canon web site, search for your model, and download the user manual for free in a .pdf file.

Michael G

bingonut Loc: Cape Cod

Michael

Thanks, but I do have the manual for my camera.

I also just picked up Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson.