First dSLR soon...

[FrayAdjacent]

Hey there. I got on this forum back in 2006 I guess when it was still the Texas Photo Forum to learn some things about photography and get the most out of my fixed lense Kodak camera that I had gotten in late 2005. I still have that camera, and it still takes nice pictures!

Anyway, the finances are looking very positive this year, so I'm going to be getting my first dSLR soon. I've been reading around and have talked to a few coworkers, and I think the Canon T2i is going to be the winner. My plan is to get one with the 18-55mm lense and learn how to use it all... and then start my lens collection! ;)

I've seen that there is a "For Dummies" book about the camera, and I'm considering picking that up as well... has anyone done that, or perused one to check out if they are worth the $20 from Amazon?

[RexGig]

Welcome to DSLR shooting!

I really liked the "From Snapshots To Great Shots" book for the 7D, and still use it for reference, but as with the "For Dummies" series, it is not the same author for all camera models, and the author can really make or break a book.

[groovyone]

Welcome. Understanding Exposure is a must have book. I really cannot recommend it enough.

[FrayAdjacent]

Originally Posted by groovyone

Welcome. Understanding Exposure is a must have book. I really cannot recommend it enough.

I'll check it out. I still think I'm going to get the 'For Dummies' book, hopefully it will help me learn the specific camera's ins and outs, and have great examples. The 'For Dummies' books are great at that for all subjects!

[morech]

Welcome back and welcome to DSLR!

I agree with the above two people about this. Find a book that is specific to your camrea that can give you hints. The exposure book noted above was a pretty good read as well. Of course do not neglect your free online resources with site like this and adoramatv (who hosts great videos on youtube).

[LEO III]

I agree with the others about Bryan Peterson's Understanding Exposure. Be sure you get the latest (3rd) edition. He just updated it in 2010. You can get it on Amazon for $16. Be sure and use the Pixtus link to Amazon, so that we get our commission.

You might want to forego the Dummies book, until you've memorized and mastered the manual that comes with the camera. Mine is in my bag at all times, and I refer back to it more than I ever thought I would. You might find that you don't need anything more than the Canon manual. It's also available online. Here's the link:

http://www.css.washington.edu/w/imag...T2i_Manual.pdf

[FrayAdjacent]

Thanks for the advice, and the link Leo!

I'm happy because something I was selling on eBay sold very quickly, and I got what I wanted for it. Not enough for the camera yet, but I have a bonus and an 'extra' paycheck this month... and should be getting money back from Uncle Sam. Maybe a couple weeks and I'll do my final shopping around.

I've seen a couple good prices on Amazon, so I'll keep in mind to use the link from here to order. It's an easy way I can support this site, so I'll absolutely do it!

[Nikonfan]

Originally Posted by groovyone

Welcome. Understanding Exposure is a must have book. I really cannot recommend it enough.

You beat me to the recomendation. I knew someone would do it.

[brewercm]

I downloaded a copy of my manual and have it on my Toshiba tablet so I don't have to cry around the book with me all the time. Just a thought if you have some sort of iPad or other tablet.

[texkam]

YouTube is your friend as well. ..........and Sonny's posts. : P

[JohnT]

Originally Posted by groovyone

Welcome. Understanding Exposure is a must have book. I really cannot recommend it enough.

+1 definitely!

[ronocnikral]

since you're on an online forum, and I know you didn't ask. but...I'd recommend a used 50d (or the like) and a nifty fifty if you're going the canon route. you'll be much happier in the long run, imo. if your finances are looking real good, I'd spring for a nice used 5d.

I don't know how well of a handle you have on your being on 33 days into the year, but if you're a cheap $@!#$% like me, I'd unfashionably walk down to the library and check out any book you would like. Most library systems can get you the understanding exposure book. I've found there are very few books I read a second time since I've entered adulthood.

[FrayAdjacent]

Ron, while the finances are looking better... I see what the 50Ds are going for, and finances won't be THAT good!

I'll just get the T2i and then work on getting some nice glass. In later years, I'll get a higher end body to use 'em with!

[MHampton]

Originally Posted by groovyone

Welcome. Understanding Exposure is a must have book. I really cannot recommend it enough.

Ditto on this book. It will be better for you than any "Dummies" book...

[FrayAdjacent]

Michael, Thanks for the additional feedback. I downloaded the cheat sheet, too!