Know Your Camera!

I made a big goof last spring when I bought a new digital camera. I didn’t take time to read the manual. I was just replacing my old camera so I figured I already knew how this new camera worked. Anyway, a couple of days after I got the camera, my son was competing in a mutton bustin’ contest. (Side note: Mutton bustin is a rodeo event where a child rides a sheep. Silly, huh?) I packed up my camera, extra batteries, etc. and went to watch my son ride. I took loads of pictures that evening. Tuff Hedeman (World Champion Bull Rider) even stopped to pose for a picture with Landry.

When I got home, I practically ran to the computer to view all the fabulous pictures I took. I was devastated! More than half of the pictures did not turn out because I didn’t have the camera on the right setting.
The moral to this story is KNOW YOUR CAMERA! Pick up your manual and read it. Make sure you have your camera close by when reading the manual so you can make mental notes as you go. Next, practice what you learned. The great thing about digital cameras is you don’t waste film… so snap away. Take the same picture several times using the different options. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Learn what works best. You won’t regret it.

If you don’t have a manual for your camera, look online. Most camera manufacturers publish their manuals online. Some also have some great tutorials, tips, and tricks.