A photo-happy person like me always has a camera with them. I’m the first to whip out my iPhone to save a moment. I’ve got a point-and-shoot camera stashed in my purse at all times. I’ve been wanting to explore photography more, and a “big girl” camera was high on my wish list for the holidays. Santa delivered, and I’m the proud owner of a Canon EOS 60D digital SLR.
And it’s been sitting in its case since Christmas.
I don’t like to fail, and I’ve been so intimidated by the complexity of this camera that I’ve avoided it completely. Aperture. Depth of field. F Stop. PPI. I’ve secretly been afraid that I’m in over my head here. Sure, it has an automatic setting, but a point-and-shoot camera works for that- the point was to grow and learn. So recently, I took a friend’s advice and just started taking photos.
My first challenge has been to learn to be comfortable with manual focus. I love how you can really pinpoint which part of the image you want to be sharp (and which parts to blur). I’m still in the auto mode in every other way, but I’m getting the hang of this part- and having a blast with my new toy!
I don’t have a zoom lens yet (I get that when I “graduate” from big girl camera school), and I have yet to play around with the other manual settings- but it’s obvious that this hobby is just beginning.
Camera pros: What are your best tips for a beginner? Share with me!
A couple of photo-happy posts (here and here).
One year ago: Tandoori-ish chicken and the best leftovers ever.
the usual bliss 
I’m looking to learn to use our DSLR better too! Great photos are so integral to a blog, though I’ve always been impressed with your point-and-shoot photos here. Good luck, Amber!
Thanks, Kate! I am happy with the point-and-shoot but think this would be a hobby I’ll really enjoy… stay tuned!
Looks like you’re off to a great start, Amber! I’ve thought about a “big girl” camera over the years, but I just haven’t taken the plunge yet. It’s hard to break away from my iPhone camera. 🙂
It’s just so EASY, plus you always have it on you!
You have a natural eye for photography and you will grow and experience so much more with your big girl camera now:) Good Luck and Have FUN!!! Happy Weekend:)
Oh, thank you, Renee! So far, it’s been a lot of fun. Not as convenient as stashing a mini-camera in my purse, though!
No, those cameras have some bulk and heft. Mine weighs about 12 pounds when I have the long lens on.
I am far from a pro, but when I got my grown-up camera, I took a class to help me figure out how everything works. It wasn’t exactly a photography class, more of a did-you-know-your-camera-can-do-this-and-this-and-this kind of class. It helped make me more comfortable moving away from the automatic setting!
That’s the exact kind of class I want to take. I guess I COULD just read the instruction manual but I prefer hands-on learning!
You’re going to be a pro in no time! Your “practice” shots are already fabulous. 🙂 I would love to splurge on a DSLR, but am completely intimidated. You go girl, for trying something new! Can’t wait to see your progress!
It’s scary, isn’t it?!
I really want a big girl camera and thought that’s what I was getting but instead got a new iPad (which is also really cool). So maybe soon I’ll get one so I can start getting better photos of my new home.
I’m sure I’ll be in the same boat as you when I do get one. All the things these cameras can do is just plain amazing but very intimidating to figure out. Best of luck to you and I hope you share some secrets are you learn!
I bet the new iPads are so awesome! We have the very first edition of iPad. It’s amazing the things it CAN’T do compared to the newer ones!
I think I need a basic camera class to learn properly.
OH MY!!! I just scrolled through these pictures about a dozen times. I have no tips because I’m a sad little smartphone photographer, but your photos are AMAZING.
Smooch! Thanks!
Your EYE is all you need (and you definitely have that). The other stuff? One word: AUTOMATIC. When you get ready for a zoom, check out the Tamron 150-600mm, which should work great with your Canon body. It’s all the buzz among the pros, and won’t break the bank.
Thanks for that tip!