Understanding the Basics of Using your Digital Camera 

Digital cameras have changed the way that we take pictures. No longer do we limit the number of pictures we take because there’s no development costs. But there are disadvantages too. Let’s look at how to get the most out of your digital camera.

A film camera takes the image the second you press the shutter button. However, with digital cameras it takes a few seconds. This is especially true when adjustments are being made automatically. Digital cameras also need more light than film cameras. In addition, because a person doesn’t have to worry about development costs, commonly we snap photos until the memory card is full, and then what do you with them all? You can overcome the disadvantages very easily with these few tips.

A digital camera uses a sensor and memory card. When taking a digital picture the shutter opens and sensor is exposed to light. The sensor then reacts to the light and the resulting image is stored on the memory card. 

The light hits the sensor and this decides almost everything about your image. Your digital camera can make a few adjustments but it is all related to the type of light and the amount of light received. There are three settings you can use to control how the light hits the sensor. 


1. The focus adjusts the lens making sure that the light gathers on the sensor's surface. Most have automatic focus but some do have manual focus manually and even interchangeable lenses.
2. The aperture, which is measured in F-stops decides just how wide the shutter will open. The wider its open the more light let in. The higher the F-stop number the smaller the opening. The aperture determines the image’s depth of field. 
3. The shutter speed decides how long the shutter is going to be open. The longer it is open the more light that is let into the sensor.

The shutter speed determines how long the shutter is open. The longer it's open, the more light will hit the sensor. If you or your subject is moving while the shutter is open, the image will be blurred. With many cameras, you are able to manually set the shutter speed and aperture, which can reduce the time between pressing the button and the shutter opening. 

Learning how to properly set the speed and aperture means you can control your image. However, because the shutter is open longer your picture can easily blur, so it’s a good idea to use a tripod to keep the camera still. 

Now that you understand a few of the basics for using your digital camera it’s time to start experimenting.
