Quick tips
Of the many valuable tips about using a digital camera, these are at the top of the list:
Read and refer to the manual
Honestly, it really does help you get to know your camera. Plus the manual often contains a lot of great photography tips. Give it a good read through. Then as you become familiar with the basic functions, go back and read about other features as you need them.
Shutter button
Press the shutter-release button correctly: in two steps! Otherwise photos will be improperly exposed and focused or blurred due to camera shake. The two-step sequence also helps reduce shutter-lag, the delay between when you press the button and when an image is actually taken.
Learn where to lock focus and exposure
Where you point the camera lens just prior to locking focus and expsoure is equally as important as pressing the shutter button correctly. Follow this link for a illustrated explanation of this must-know tip.
Camera shake
To avoid camera movement, use a tripod or other camera support when taking photos in low light, zooming in with long focal lengths, or in places where flash photography is impractical. If you don't have a camera support, brace yourself to steady the camera while shooting.
Avoid noise whenever possible
When increasing the ISO setting on a digital camera, the less light is needed to make an exposure. Higher ISO numbers are useful when taking photos in low light; however, a frequent consequence is that photos become "noisy."
Image noise appears as randomly-spaced speckles and blotches that reduce photo clarity and detail. To help prevent or reduce noise when taking photos in poor light, select a low ISO number and use a camera support. Then again, noise in a photo is better than no photo at all.
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