First try (at a lot of things)

[Mr Eric]

Hello all,

So a few months ago I decided to step up from a P&S to a Canon Rebel T2i. Unable to contain my excitement, I pretty much went out and started shooting without really understanding how to use the camera or much about photography for that matter. That being said, I think I came up with a few decent pics.

Needless to say, I've been working to educate myself and improve my skills.

I'd appreciate some constructive advice.

Thanks,

Eric

I wish I'd know about longer exposures when I took this. The water could have been smoother.


Camera Canon EOS REBEL T2i
Exposure 0.002 sec (1/500)
Aperture f/5.0
Focal Length 39 mm
ISO Speed 1000
Exposure Bias 0 EV
Flash Off, Did not fire
X-Resolution 240 dpi
Y-Resolution 240 dpi

[autofocus]

Welcome on board Eric. As a photography novice I think you'll find this site to be very beneficial. The only thing I want to say about your shots is that you chose settings that have extremes in contrast...from very bright to very dark. Being that the dynamic range of digital cameras is somewhat limited compared to what the human eye and brain can see you should try to avoid this type of lighting (if given a choice) Sometimes a simple step or two can make all the difference in the world. Dappled light, as you have on your subject, is not very flattering..moving her over to open shade would have worked out a lot better. Just a few things of the many you will learn as you grow as a photographer. But, rest assured, as long as you keep shooting at every opportunity, you will get there. It's an ongoing learning experience for all of us, regardless of how long we've been doing it.

[Mr Eric]

Thanks Autofucus. I probably should have mentioned that these shots were from the first weekend I had the camera. I've been reading a lot since then and when I get home from this deployment I'm looking forward to putting my new knowledge into practice.

[EOBeav]

Multnomah Falls, the most photographed place in Oregon. :-) I never tire of a good picture from there.

The best time to photograph this place is when it's in the shade. Sunlight and shade just don't mix well on your camera sensor. Long exposure photos are nice, but faster exposure times can show the power of the falls as well.

Welcome to the world of digital photography with a DSLR. It's perfectly ok to go around and shoot things without knowing what you're doing. We've all been there. When you're ready to get out of automatic mode, though, there are some great tutorials right here on DPS. Start by learning the Exposure Triangle, then be sure and click on the links at the bottom of that page to learn even more about ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Find other photogs on Flickr and study what it is that you like about their photos. Don't be afraid to ask questions. And above all, keep your camera with you and shoot whenever you get a chance. You've got a learning curve ahead of you to do it right, but it's very doable if you keep at it.

[curelightwounds]

The rainbow would have been nice if it was more centered. A longer exposure would also have really brought up the rainbow.

Live and learn, welcome to the hobby.

[Krusty79]

Welcome to DPS. Here is a checklist that I recommend for beginners:

Livermore Valley Camera Club Article: Guide to Critiquing Your Own Work