Most people I know that buy a digital SLR use it exactly the same way they use their point and shooter. That is they select the point and shoot mode on their camera and that is forever where the mode dial stays. Now there isn’t anything wrong with shooting in full auto mode. It is sometimes the easiest way to get a shot off.Getting to know how to use your digital SLR will allow you to take better pictures. Understanding the functions and when to change them is the first step in taking better pictures. ISO in film cameras refers to the film speed. Of course we all know that digital cameras don’t use film, but still have the option to change ISO. This basically will change how sensitive your sensor is to light. A higher ISO setting will make your camera more sensitive to light, while a lower ISO setting will be less sensitive. Ok, so what does that mean you ask? When shooting at night, you want your camera to be as sensitive as possible to what little light there is. Selecting a higher ISO will allow your camera’s shutter to close quicker, reducing blurry images. When shooting during the day, use a lower ISO since there is already plenty of light.
There is one downside to using a higher ISO with your digital camera: noise. The higher ISO setting you select, the more noise will be introduced to your picture. Too much noise and your images will look grainy. They only way to find out what your camera can do and which ISO settings work best is to go out and practice. Refer to your camera’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to do it. Don’t worry, it’s usually very easy to change.
If you don’t have a digital SLR, head on over to your closest hhgregg store and pick one up today!
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