Gear Gifts
A shiny new camera was a popular item in the back of Santa’s sleigh this year! If you were like my mom, it was an exciting gift to get, but one that will definitely be giving out goodies for more than just the next year. After unboxing, and making sure everything turn on, it can be overwhelming to think about what to do next. Do I read the manual from cover to cover? Almost never. Do I need to buy more accessories and things to add to the body? Usually. Do I change any of the settings on the camera before using it? Absolutely. Why would I do any of these things?
I would do what most kids do with their new toys. I would go out and play with it first! Take LOTS of photos with the new camera. If you had a previous model that was similar in type, you will be very comfortable with most of the layout of the control and the symbols printed on the camera. There may be some new buttons on there, but if you didn’t have them on your last camera, you will likely not need them on your new camera if you have not read about it yet. Most functions on cameras have not changed in decades. So it is likely that if you are used to a particular brand and how it displays functions, it will continue to do so on your new model.
New Camera
Taking lots of photos with your new camera will also get you comfortable with how it responds. If you left the settings exactly how it came out of the box, it will likely give you perfectly fine results. They may not look much different as images from a point and shoot, or smartphone camera, but they will be viewable, and will give you a starting point to play with the settings later. There is probably a lot of family, friends, and other holiday things going on right away, so don’t worry so much about the details with your new gear. Just start enjoying it by using it!
You have a lot of time to tinker with all the other fun that a camera can make when you are not stressed about the season. Just be sure to register the camera with the manufacturer before your lose the registration card, of the serial number rubs off the outside! That will ensure you get all the warranty and repair rights if something breaks along the way.
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