Idiot needs help!

[e21Mark]

I have just been gifted a DSLR and would like to learn how to use it for automotive photography mainly. I have only ever used point and snap type cameras in the past and although happy enough with framing shots, the results have always been let down by the picture quality. (what's that saying about bad workmen and tools again?) So, can any of you guys give me some initial advice and maybe set me some tasks? I figure I could then post the results here to get some feedback?

The camera I have is a Canon EOS 6.3MP and I have the 18-55mm lens it came with and an EF50mm 1.8 II which I got as an extra. I know it's not state of the art equipment but hopefully it's enough to give respectable results? Please bear in mind I have never used the camera before and know nothing about photography so please don't think hold back on dumbing stuff down for the learner so to speak.

thanks chaps.

[AndrewEH1]

First off what model of Canon EOS do you have? That might help a little.

Have you kept it on the automatic modes or have you been trying some manual set ups as well?

6.3MP won't limit you at all really, unless you want to make huge prints. The quality of the glass is the main thing to worry about.

The 18-55mm is a reasonable kit lens and should do in many situations. The 50mm is better suited to lower light conditions, but can be used for anything it's a great lens for it's price.

Edited by AndrewEH1 on Wednesday 18th January 15:07

[baz7175]

At 6.3Mp I'm guessing it's an old 300D (or Rebel if USA variant)

[AndrewEH1]

baz7175 said:

At 6.3Mp I'm guessing it's an old 300D (or Rebel if USA variant)

Could have been a 10D, although that only has an EF mount so rules out using the 18-55mm lens.

[Simpo Two]

e21Mark said:

I have only ever used point and snap type cameras in the past and although happy enough with framing shots, the results have always been let down by the picture quality.

'Quality' really means nothing on its own - can you define it more or post some examples?

[e21Mark]

Thanks chaps.

The camera is

Megapixels: 6.3 MP Model: 300D
Optical Zoom: 3x MPN: CANON300DCANONEF1855MMLENSSILVER
Screen Size: 1.8" Type: Digital SLR
Colour: Silver

I've not used it at all yet as I figured I would get some advice first. Am I better just sticking to auto focus or should I stay with manual? My main interest is photographing cars so which lens is best?

When I spoke of poor picture quality from previous photographs I just meant a lack of clarity and definition I guess. It was a rubbish camera though, so hardly surprising.

[Simpo Two]

e21Mark said:

When I spoke of poor picture quality from previous photographs I just meant a lack of clarity and definition I guess. It was a rubbish camera though, so hardly surprising.

It's not up to current standards of course but you should still be able take good photos with it. What may be foxing you is that DSLRs do not generally give perfect results every time like compacts - there will be a learning curve while you learn about exposure, highlights, noise etc. 50p says your photos are 1-2 stops underexposed with flat colours...

[e21Mark]

My only previous photos are with a cheap holiday snaps type camera and an i-phone so quality was never really expected. I have yet to use the DSLR and thought I would get some advice to help me get started.

Should I simply stick in on auto focus and start snapping away?

[richcorsavxr]

e21Mark said:

My only previous photos are with a cheap holiday snaps type camera and an i-phone so quality was never really expected. I have yet to use the DSLR and thought I would get some advice to help me get started.

Should I simply stick in on auto focus and start snapping away?

i would stick it in auto on the screen selection, with the autofocus on, start snapping away, and once a little confident play with settings and learn

[RobDickinson]

Problem with the 300d is you only get AI servo (tracking autofocus) in 'sport' mode and cant select it in any of the manual modes which makes things like tracking panning shots tricky (as sports mode will select a fast shutter speed).

18-55 and 50f1.8 arnt up to motorsports either unless your sitting on the track.

Get a 55-250IS aswell, or a used 100-300mm.

[e21Mark]

Meanwhile, which lens would be best of the 2 I have now?

[RobDickinson]

The 50/1.8

18-55 has a tiny bit more reach but the 50 is a lot faster if theres less light and much much much sharper. Its not the best focusing tho but should do ok.

[trackdemon]

Hey Mark, you can fire as many questions as you like at me when we shoot your car..... which I'll call you about today! (Looks like both mags interested!)

[rottie102]

Check your PM Mark

[e21Mark]

Excellent news!

Thanks chaps! Much appreciated.