Digital camera settings? I need help finding the right ones?

Question

I have a Sony Cyber-Shot (see link below for specifics) and I am having a hard time finding the best settings for overall use and indoor/low light conditions. Does anyone have any suggestions on the best settings??? Thanks.

http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/sony/dsc_t33-review/index.shtml

Answer 1

One of the joys (and also frustrations) of photography is the learning process! What kind of problems are you having? If you're relying on the built-in flash to light a large room...you've probably already discovered that it doesn't do a very good job!

If you stick with the camera's "P" mode, it will try to set things properly for a good general exposure. Your camera probably has an adjustable ISO. If so, try to use a higher number (400 or 800) for low light shots. BUT be sure to change it back to 100 for other shots! You'll get higher quality shots at ISO 100.

I've had good luck with a point and shoot digital indoors at ISO 100...IF I HOLD THE CAMERA VERY STEADY... and turn off the flash. Then the camera sets the proper exposure using a slower shutter speed...letting in more light. But I'd suggest you take more than one shot, if your subject will allow it. Because some of your shots will be blurry because of camera shake.

I hope this helps!

Answer 2

Your camera has lots of flexibility for different photo situations. You need to learn what they are, then practice applying them to each situation you encounter.

Start by learning the Scene Modes in your Menu. Each of these is set up for a particular situation (bright beach, twilight, portrait, closeup, etc.). Then switch the Mode to the kind of pic you are taking.

Next learn to set up Program mode yourself for the situation you see. For example, Menu settings that might increase brightness include:
. Increase Exposure Compensation
. Increase ISO
. Use Spot Metering to make sure the object in the middle of the frame is well lit.

Also, learning to read the live Histogram (a graph you can set up on the LCD), lets you predict how bright the pic will be. A graph skewed to the right will be brighter, to the left will be darker. If it is too much to the left, adjust the camera for more Exposure Compensation or ISO.

Each photo situation is a little different, so you need to practice to learn what settings work best in for these situations.

Good Luck