Photography 101

As you all know, this is my month to learn more about photography and how to use my camera. I am absolutely a beginner when it comes to taking good pics. About two years ago we invested in a nicer camera, but I haven't really taken the time to learn how to be creative with it. I have a Canon Rebel xsi.

Until lately I've only used the automatic settings which are great, but don't allow you to use your own creativity.

This is the Mode dial on the Rebel. Above the fully automatic mode is the creative zone, below it is the basic zone.
Although the creative zone is INCREDIBLY confusing to me, I'm beginning to understand a teensy bit more about how it all works.
We spent this weekend up at our cabin and I was able to practice using the M setting which allowed me to change up all kinds of things.

Manual Mode (M) - This mode provides the most control of all, as you are able to adjust every aspect of the shot. There is absolutely no camera assist in this mode. You are able to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO for yourself. Most experienced photographers will exclusively use manual mode due to the level of customization it offers. (source)

Here are a couple pictures I took that demonstrates the difference between using the Auto Mode and the Manual Mode.

ABOUT THIS PHOTO: I used the Auto Mode. Notice how the lake is gray and all looks a little blaw.

ABOUT THIS PHOTO: I just love the difference the Manual Mode can make. Brings out all the colors and really captures the beauty of it all. Taken with a 55-250mm Canon Zoom lens; shot at 1/100 sec., f/4.0, ISO 400

I'm still learning what ISO, F/stop and shutter speed even means. Right now it's all kind of going over my head, but I'm confident that as I persist I will begin to understand a little better.

Here are a couple more pics I took over the weekend.

Don't ya just love this picture. I used the Auto Setting here because I had to be quick in order to catch this precious moment of Oliver praying with his daddy. Priceless!