Getting a new camera can be an exciting experience. With so many buttons and menu options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed trying to set everything up perfectly right out of the box. In this helpful video, an experienced photographer provides her top five tips for getting started with a new camera.
Rather than trying to master every single feature and customize every setting before shooting, Leigh and Raymond Photography advocates a more thoughtful yet playful approach. First, of course, inspect the physical camera for any shipping damage and test that ports and doors are functioning properly. After that, new camera owners should first focus on some fundamental physical checks and comfort-building before diving into advanced settings. The idea is for new users set the right foundation to grow their skills progressively.
Specifically, the video recommends new camera owners take certain steps to inspect and configure their gear such that they feel empowered to start snapping photos. However, there is such a thing as getting too obsessed early on with mastering every single technical specification before allowing yourself to experiment and play around with the camera. There is tremendous value in giving yourself permission to just enjoy your new device at the onset during the exciting honeymoon phase that accompanies any new purchase.
And, like it or not, there is a lot of value is reading at least some of the manual, so set aside an afternoon to at least page through it! Check out the video above for the full rundown.
