b] four steps to gett ing the shot

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1] MODE

The first step is to choose the shooting mode. If you’re looking to make your first step up from the green auto mode, turn the dial to ‘P’ for programmed auto. Here, the camera automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed to produce an exposure it determines is ‘optimal’, but rotating the camera dial enables you to select alternative combinations of aperture and shutter speed for different effects while maintaining the same overall exposure.

3] compose

Not all viewfinders show the entire image captured by the lens, but your camera’s Live View display does. Activate this and use the grid overlays to help you frame a shot accurately. Live View also enables you to preview any image processing options, such as the White Balance and Picture Control settings, in real time. Autofocus can be slow in Live View, so if you’re photographing an active subject we’d recommend reverting to the viewfinder.

2] settings

Pressing the button marked ‘info’ or ‘i’ turns the rear screen into a detailed information display. This provides a snapshot of shooting parameters such as aperture, shutter speed and ISO and enables you to quickly alter key camera settings like the focus mode and White Balance without having to dip into the multi-layered menu system. To make changes, press the info button again, highlight a setting and tap OK to view the options. Simple!

4] shoot

The shutter release is a two-stage button: press it halfway to activate the exposure metering system and the autofocus. Once the image snaps into focus, keep the shutter release half-pressed to lock the focus, then reframe the scene for the best composition before fully depressing the button to take the shot. In single-servo AF mode (AF-S), you will be unable to press the button fully until the camera indicates the image covered by the AF points is in focus.