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If you've never used a digital camera before and have just bought or been gifted one, you will need to have some understanding and knowledge of how it works. While the manual and operating instructions will definitely help, they might make more sense to a seasoned user. Some simple tips, beginning with the basics are listed below.
Step 1:

Holding a digital camera. To take good pictures, it is important to hold the camera steady while shooting. Use a tripod for best results, but if you do not want to go through the hassle of setting and dismantling a tripod, hold the camera with both hands to provide support. Keep your elbows tucked in and hold the camera as close to your body so as to be able to peer through the viewfinder or the LCD screen. Your right hand should cover the right end of the camera, with your index finger resting lightly on the shutter button; the remaining three fingers should curve around the front of the camera and the right thumb support the back of the camera. The left hand should provide steady support by holding on to the camera on the left side, but not obstructing the viewfinder or screen.

Step 2:

Shutter release techniques. Most people tend to jab or push at the shutter button to take photographs. The best way is to always have your right index finger sitting lightly on the shutter button when you hold the camera, and to squeeze gently when taking your shot. Use the flat top part of your finger to take the shot, this will not only avoid the camera from shaking, but also give you great control over the shot you want to take.

Step 3:

Digital camera modes. You would have seen several camera options listed in the menu or in the instruction manual, but are at a loss as to which one should be used when taking photos. Firstly, there is the automatic mode, which allows the camera to make all decisions - shutter speed, using the flash, focus, white balance, etc. Though the result may be adequate pictures, it will help to set your camera on to a different mode, when taking some specific types of pictures. Modes other than automatic, found on most digital cameras are:

  • Portrait mode - Allows you to keep the background out of focus and concentrate on the subject of your shot.
  • Macro mode - This is great for close-ups, especially if you're taking pictures of a single flower, insects or small objects.
  • Landscape mode - This allows you to get in as much detail of the subject and its background, in contrast with the portrait mode.
  • Action/sports mode - Set your camera on this mode if you want to take good action shots, such as a game of basketball or a car race.
  • Night mode - Allows you to take photos in low light or dark conditions by using a long shutter speed and automatic flash to illuminate your shot.
  • Movie mode - You can take moving images instead of still pictures in this mode.
  • Other modes - Depending on the brand and make of the digital camera, you may come across several more modes such as manual, beach, indoor, underwater, fireworks, etc.
The few tips covered here are just some of the simple and easy ones with which you can begin using your new digital camera. Practice these techniques until you are proficient, and you can then get into detailed photography techniques and experiment with the various options and menus on your camera.
About this Author:
Garrett has recently discovered the joy of grilling chicken like a confident, pro griller, and wants to share the article with all you readers out there.
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