Th problem with learing on a DSLR

[AnnaV]

Because you've got an SLR everyone assumes you're good, or think you are, and because it's digital they want to see the results straight away

I wish they'd just let me practice

[myang07]

Haha...funny thing, and is kinda true. It's getting less and less like that now because DSLR's are becoming the norm now with very affordable entry level models. Just tell people they have to pay to see the results

[AnnaV]

I have been telling some people that my screen is broken and just switching it off, that works quite well. Also resorted to photographing my daughter's puppet to practice portrait lighting

[windrider86]

I used to set my camera up and sit with a notebook and take the same shot over and over again but with different settings for each shot. I'd write down the settings and which number the photo was.
That taught me alot about settings and the different results. Then go on to changing the light and just keep doing that till you get more comfortable with your camera

[AnnaV]

Yes I've been doing that, taking a series of photos of the puppet changing different things to learn about everything.

I find that I can get to grips with it but when I am out 'in the field' so to speak, it kinda goes flying out of my head!

I suppose only practice will cure that.

I've also just started an evening course at my local college which I am really enjoying and is good for forcing me to focus (no pun intended) on one thing at a time.

[myang07]

Just keep practicing until you get "comfortable". Once you get to that stage, BAM, you're gonna be snapping away, haha. And yes, when on the fly, a lot of stuff does go out the window...I usually pause myself for a little bit and give myself a pep talk in my head. To the subject I'm sure I just look like I'm thinking hard about something, haha.

[AnnaV]

Thank you! Great advice from you both

[Gonzo13]

Puppets that's great. I have actually taken pictures of my Wife's fairy statues to learn about portrait lighting and using book ends.


Fairy Portrait by ~Gonzo13 on deviantART


I like the idea of turning off the display and telling people it is broke. Genius.

~Gonzo13