Taming the Canon Rebel Xsi

As a beginner, the technicalities of photography revolve around one basic fundamental. No matter your situation, lighting or environment, a photographer must understand his or her camera.

The Canon Rebel XSi comes with many different program modes that allow you to point and shoot, all while determining the settings automatically. Blade's picture was taken on fully automatic. All I had to do was point, zoom and press the shutter button. But what about actually reading that manual? Doesn't it seem a little discouraging to read a couple hundred pages on something you don't understand in the first place?

If you have answered yes to the above question, I have a recommendation. DVD tutorials are an amazingly quick way to learn the ins and outs of learning your DSLR. Notice I did not say "master" your camera, but to get a basic understanding of all the different aspects that are combined to reveal that perfect photograph.

After receiving my Rebel XSi for Christmas from my parents, I couldn't stand to sit and read Canon's user guide. It was bland, confusing and just downright discouraging. So I researched some professionals who compiled tutorials on my specific camera. I can honestly say I found an intriguing teacher, who makes learning just a little bit more fun.

Michael Andrew's "Rebel XSi Crash Course" DVD saved me many days of reading. His simple lessons and explanations make sense and gave me hope for my new found hobby. He has many different lessons and DVDs for different cameras, and also has an impressive portfolio. I urge all photography beginners, and new Canon Rebel XSi owners to at least check his site out. You can find some sample videos on the "Rebel Crash Course" order page, but make sure to check out the links at the top of his page as well. Michael's portfolio has some amazing shots, so give it a try! Personally speaking, I am now 100% more comfortable with my XSi after watching the DVD. It's a few hours long, but well worth the price and time because I'm over the fear of not knowing what to look for, both on the camera and what it's pointing at.

Thanks for reading, and if you have a blog or photo site, paste your link in the comments. I'd like to check them out! I've linked Michael's blog so you too, can see what he's up to.