Technique Book for a Newbie

[invictus]

Hi everyone,

I just signed up for this forum because I purchased a Canon A80 after seeing all the favorable reviews and getting a really good deal on it at Best Buy. I am going to be spending about 4 months in Europe this fall and want to bring back some good pictures, but there's one catch...

This is my first camera! I went to B&N yesterday and was looking at books on photography, but there weren't (m)any on digital photography, and what I really want to learn is basic jargon and uses for all the A80's manual features as well as how to compose some good looking photographs!

So what is a good book to get for a beginner?

[Chris1le]

My Mom bought me this on for my birthday. It is a pretty good all around book discussing everything from equipment, techniques, effects and post processing. Give it a shot!

Digital Photographer's Handbook (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0789489074/qid=1088916137/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/102-7218470-6750500?v=glance&s=books) by Tom Ang

[stopbath]

I suggest a trip to the library and borrow a lot of books. If you find a good book, buy a copy for your shelf so you can refer to it at any time.

No one book will be perfect and explain everything properly for you, so get several. You should read at least one cover to cover, and use the rest as reference.

Have fun with the A80.

[CoolToolGuy]

If this is your first camera (of any type?) you may want to look at Digital Photography For Dummies. It explains things in a very basic manner, and may help you get up to speed quickly.

Despite the name, and my 30+ years of photographic experience, I bought it when I became serious about digital. I believe there is an Idiot's Guide as well. Either one will get you on track with camera basics and the essential elements of photography quickly.

Have Fun,

[Airen]

I also just purchased this camera, actually for very similar reasoning. Im living in Europe For another year and would adore some great shots!

So when i find a good book, ill let you know!

[Aylwin]

I have the National Geographic Photography Field Guide (http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/jump.jsp?itemID=60&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C1 05%2C114%2C210) and I think it's great!

However, I read it ages ago and have forgotten most of it already. So I've actually had to re-learn everything (and more) on these forums. :oops: