Not reading the owners’ manual!
We all know these things make very difficult reading and are written for those who understand how a DSLR works! But even the novice photographer needs to read the first few pages at least.
It’s amazing t how many people we see who have no idea that they should adjust the viewfinder to their eyesight so the image they see in the viewfinder is sharp.
Not choosing the correct camera and lenses to suit your requirements
This won’t be popular with all the photography dealers out there but here goes! If you want to get into photography and be able to take wonderful images then purchase a proper DSLR. The basic models from Canon and Nikon are excellent and enable you to add lenses and other accessories as you progress. Bridge cameras are often more expensive than these entry level models and are unable to produce certain shot’s without great difficulty. They are often not as user friendly when it comes to selecting settings in the menu system.
Not learning to use the cameras manual settings
If you shoot everything in Program or Auto Exposure mode get yourself a compact!
Not examining images on the LCD monitor on back of camera
The rear screens on the modern DSLR’s are excellent but should only be used as a guide to what you have taken, use the zoom buttons to explore the image and check to see if what you want to be sharp and correctly focussed is. Use the histogram to make sure the shot is exposed correctly.
Not using a tripod and cable release
We all know a tripod can be a real pain to carry around, but to consistently achieve pin sharp images, especially when capturing landscapes, a tripod is a must. To do its job correctly it must be sturdy, this doesn’t always mean it has to be heavy though. If you need a tripod go to your local dealer and check out the models they have on display. If you see one on the internet for £7.99 you’re wasting your time, you’d be better off tying three bamboo sticks together! A cable release will also prevent movement of the camera when attached to a tripod. Great for low light shots as well. Try and avoid the wireless models, the wired models from Nikon and Canon start at around £15.00.
Not purchasing a spare battery
Always carry a fully charged spare battery with you, there is nothing more embarrassing than your battery going flat, it will always happen at the most inconvenient moment. When buying a spare battery, be very careful where you get it, some manufacturers will not honour your guarantee when a patent part is used.
Not purchasing the correct memory cards
Always go for the well known manufacturers and purchase from a reputable dealer, especially when buying online. If you’re going abroad take spare cards with you. There are so many fake cards on the market at the moment, especially outside of Europe and it’s often difficult to tell the fake from the originals. We’ve heard many horror stories about fake cards breaking up inside a camera.