Session 1 - Photography Class

I signed up for a photography class at a local arts center.  The class lasts three weeks long for two hours each class. This class is the first of several I hope to take.  This class is titled "Beginner's Guide to Digital Photography."  In this class we are supposed to learn how to use all of the menus and functions of our digital camera. This class is designed for point and shoots but I signed up because DSLR's are welcome.  I thought any and all information would help me with my photos. 

This first session was about getting to know your camera.  We discussed ISO (a.k.a. noise reduction), zoom (optical and digital zoom), Image Stabilization/Vibration Reduction,  Image Quality, Focus Zones or Metering, Exposure Compensation, Self-timer, Built-in flash, Sounds, Rule of Thirds, Horizon Line, Changing your perspective and cropping your image/zoom in.

After the lesson we walked around the building taking photos using some of the things we learned in class.
The teacher suggested two books for us to check out.  The first was "The Digital Photography book" by Scott Kelby.  The second is a book from the Magic Lantern series based on the particular camera we have.  I personally already have the Magic Lantern DVD for my Canon 40D and I didn't really care for it.  I haven't seen the Scott Kelby book yet though.

I tried to pick up on anything extra that the teacher said.  He believes that a 50mm lens is one of the best lenses you can own.  He actually prefers the f/2.8 over the f/1.4.  I was a little lost when he got into his reasoning...but it sounded great at the time.  He said that we should always strive for bokeh in macro shooting.  He thinks that one should have a remote timer for their DSLR.  He said you can get a good infrared timer to attach to your camera for $15-$30...though he believes that the Canon has a special remote.  He said we should turn off red-eye reduction and never use it.  He also said we should keep the camera on rear curtain sink or low sink. 

ASSIGNMENT:
Our assignment was to focus on point of view (POV).  We are to take photos of some ordinary subjects around the house (outdoors or indoors) and try shooting from a different angle.  We are to incorporate the rule of thirds into our composition.