I need to learn how to use a camera

[np_complete]

My camera is a fairly low-end digital camera, but it still has a lot of features I don't know how to use. This is clear from the following photos:

Comments

[platypus]

It's very hard to use most cameras without flash. Indoors, even if you have good lighting, the shutter speed will just be too slow. The usual way to compensate for that is to raise the ISO ('film speed' equivalent), but with the vast majority of cameras (especially low-end ones) that will result in a picture that's very grainy-looking. You're pretty much stuck with the flash.

And that's a lovely orange kitty you have!

[np_complete]

You're pretty much stuck with the flash.

If there was a way to get a less extreme flash, that didn't produce a floodlight effect, that would be cool. My photos of the cat with flash make him look like an untidy pile of orange fur instead of bringing out his charm.

And that's a lovely orange kitty you have!

Isn't he gorgeous? Sweet-natured and affectionate, too.

[kalleah]

If you want to learn more about photography fundamentals, the Nikon Digital Learning Center is a great place to explore.

What kind of camera do you have? Most will have several programmed modes that are meant for certain situations, e.g. panoramas, portraits, night. Use them - don't just feel like you have to stick to the generic "auto," which will average everything down to the most appropriate for every situation instead of a specific one.

[np_complete]

Thanks for the link. I'll visit it.

I have a Canon PowerShot A510. I think I picked it out on the basis of good online reviews and a reasonable price. It has 13 shooting modes, but I don't really know what they do. Time to track down the manual, I guess.

[kalleah]

Yep. I bet those shooting modes will have some good options for you.