Getting to Know your digital camera
KNOW YOUR SYMBOLS
AUTO - This mode allows the camera to do it all. When the camera is on auto mode it will determine all of the camera settings and whether or not you need your flash.
P = Program mode - this mode is similar to AUTO except it allows you to turn your flash on and off and adjust features such as macro and spot metering.
Flash - The button with this symbol turns your flash on and off and often turns on red-eye feature. If it is in the viewfinder it means your flash is on.
Flash is disabled.
Redeye mode - typically this is enabled by pressing the flash button a few times.
Macro mode - enable this feature when you want to take SUPER close-up shots such as a bee on a flower.
Spot metering. This feature allows you to set the camera's exposure to a given segment of the photo such as a dark shaded area or bright reflecting surface.
Toggles the LCD monitor on the back of the camera on and off.
Self Timer. Allows you to take picture on a delayed basis either to keep the camera still or so you can jump into the photo too.
Allows you to put a sound annotation with the photo - if you use this feature it will significantly cut down on the number of photos you can take - but it's cool.
FORMATTING THE MEDIA
The best way to erase all of the photos on your camera's memory card is to format the card.
While most film readers will format your camera's memory card, it is best to do it in the digital camera. Some digital camera's are very picky about how the card is formatted and some media readers do a poor job at formatting.
MOVIE MODE
For the most part - this feature is a gimmick, but there may be a time when it is the only "video camera" you have.
VIEWING YOUR PHOTOS
In order to view your photos on the LCD panel, you must have the camera turned to the proper mode. Look for a rectangle with a little arrow triangle inside.
Use your camera's zoom and arrow buttons to cycle between photos and look at your photos up close.
Links from this month's meeting
Short Courses on Digital Photography [3]