Camera Problems - flash, lens????

[wjzachary]

OK, here are some examples; same settings; both on auto

1st shot; lens is Canon Zoom Lens EF 75-300 1:4-5.6

2nd shot; Tamron AF Aspherical 28-80mm 1:3.5-5.6

[ldelacruz]

Perfect test! What is auto?

[rockpics]

Don't worry about the quality of the lens just yet. Learn some more about camera settings. I used to have a Canon 28-80 (the consumer version), and all reviews of that lens say it is horrible, yet I got some good pictures with it. Practice with the Av and the Tv settings. Don't let the camera use flash unless YOU decide it's a good idea.

[wjzachary]

All right.

I will try those settings and let you know. Thanks for all the help. I will review my books again. Is there anywhere in particular I need to start, say concerning exposure, settings, etc. or is it just trial and error?

I know AUTO is a dirty word!!

[ldelacruz]

For your test you need to use all manual settings. Put it on M, set the aperture to f5.6, ISO to 400 and set the shutter speed to the correct exposure. Use these settings for both lenses and take 5 shots each a few seconds apart. Don't use flash for this test.

[rockpics]

Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson is often recommended. I learned about exposure through a college course ages ago.

[wjzachary]

Thanks for your patience and direction. I am really not an idiot just a full-time working mom with 3 kids and a husband.

Concerntration is hard to come by in my household.

Nonetheless, I am determined to figure it out. I am going to take a course at our 4-year college this spring so hopefully it will teach me some fundamentals.

I will try all your suggestions; and get post after. Today is a drearysnowy day, but I will do the best I can.

[ldelacruz]

No biggie! What did you mean by auto?

[wjzachary]

I meant auto settings :)

Did a couple of shots, inside without flash on M, Av and Tv settings and although I did get a couple of good shots. But, they were blurry. Will try outside and with a monopod and work on it.

[ldelacruz]

I was just making sure you meant auto settings. Your camera is going to be useless indoor without a flash. When you do your testing you should use manual. Also try to leave the exif data sowe can read the camera settings.