Digital cameras 101

[rhinorick]

Nikon D40.

Just got a new one.  My dad gave it to me. :-)  I am finally in the DSLR arena. :-P

I haven't played with it too much yet, but I am liking it so far.  Not as well as my Panasonic Lumix FZ50, but I'll give it some time. :-)

[ShutterbugGail]

Congratulations, you have a great camera.

It took me some time to adjust to a DSLR after moving from advanced compact camera such as the Panasonic FZ18 and Canon S2. I have a lot written about my experiences, my ups and downs, and the learning curve in my Blog. If you have a chance, take a peek around.

I've written about two of the most common things new DSLR users ask about here: Focusing with a DSLR and Soft Images:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/camera-logs/12/dslr-focus.php

http://www.digicamhelp.com/camera-logs/12/soft-images.php

You're probably familiar with Focal Length Multipliers but if you're not, heres some information. I think the D40 has a FLM of 1.5 (check the specs):

http://www.digicamhelp.com/camera-logs/11/flm.php

I actually found it more difficult learning how to get the best out of lenses, then learning how to use the camera.

Enjoy yours new toy. Look forward to see some of your photos and hearing how it goes.

[rhinorick]

Thanks. :-)  And thanks for the tips.

I am impressed so far with its quality on high ISO shots.

[rhinorick]

Wow!!  

I took some shots last night at church, of the kids playing games in AWANA.  They do a LOT of running inside, in the gym, where the light is not great for photos.  I have always had trouble getting good shots of them in there.  :-/  I do not like using a flash, and sometimes I am not close enough to them for it to be effective anyway.

Well, long story shorter ...   ... I tested my new D40 there last night.  It was awesome!!!!  I took some shots using ISO1600, and at higher shutter speeds I was able to stop their action ... without a flash!!!!      And the noise/graininess level is minimal.  

I have finally been able to experience what everyone has been talking about with DSLR's in low light.

Thank you Dad, for my new Nikon D40!!!