What additional education and equipment do I need with the purchase of my first dSLR Camera Rebel xti?

Question

I just ordered a Canon Rebel xti and I'm a newbie to SLR cameras. Where can I find instruction on camera settings, i.e. f-stop, what different types of lenses do, what an external flash benefits, etc, etc, etc. I'd really like to become a SLR hobbyist, but I cannot find any adult photography ed courses in my area. Any online info? Which products are nice upgrades to the xti without spending bookoo dollars (as I am new to this all anyway)? Any help would be appreciated!

Answer 1

You are already making the right move by getting a dSLR. I would check out books at your local library on SLR photography just to get the basics on aperature and shutter settings and then it's a matter of trial and error. The best part about digital is the instant feedback, you can see which settings work or don't work and learn from your mistakes without having to wait for film to be developed as time elapses and your memory fades. I learned a lot more information in a shorter amount of time by using my dSLR vs. my conventional SLR, even though I have had years of experience with my old faithful Minolta.
The built-in flash should suffice to start with, but you may want to eventually purchase an additional flash to increase your range and eliminate red-eye. The standard lens is a good start, too, but it would be nice to purchase a zoom up to 300mm, especially nice to have on vacation. I have already learned so from using my Nikon dSLR that I am able to transfer my knowledge to other brands such as the Canon and Olympus in order to help out my friends. Good luck with your purchase, I am sure you will have many rewarding years of use!

Answer 2

first if you got it with the stock lens included replace it when you can as it just lackluster depending on what type of photography you plan on doing will depend on the lens.

for a good round up you need a good 28 as the rebel series multiples lens by 1.6 so that 28 goes to a 42 a good portrait size

the next should be a mid range lens for common shoots and a telephoto for those long shots expect to pay at least as much for the lens as the camera if not more but remember this is an investment as the lens can move to a new higher model in the future.

also very important will be the flash card so get the fastest flash card you can as the flash car impacts how fast you can take large pictures as you can not take a second while the cards still writing the first.

also check out your local photo-shops for reference and groups

Answer 3

Try this link, it is a Canon site!
http://web.canon.jp/Imaging/enjoydslr/