Rebel XT - Question about the Timer

Can someone tell me how to reduce the time on the timer?
I just hate having to wait 10 seconds for my camera to take a picture when really all I need is 3 or 4 seconds to prevent camera shake.

Use Mirror Lockup. I think it's 2 seconds then.

Also, if you get the infrared remote it always has a two second delay. I like the mirror lockup as it also has the added advantage of reducing camera shake even more, unfortunately it is a pain to turn on and off (I wish the mirror lockup was always on when you use the timer or remote).

If you really want to eliminate camera shake, then get a tripod.

---Bob Gross---

That goes without saying. Even with a tripod the simple action of pressing the button can cause the camera to shake as can the mirror snap. To get the least movement you should use tripod + mirror lockup + timer/remote.

Thanks for the info. And I have a tripod, just the point was me shaking the camera each time I press the button - thus using the timer.

(Why would I use a timer if I didn't have a tripod?)

You'll find that simply using the remote cable release is far more convenient than the timer, mirror lockup, or the IR remote (IMO). It also means that you can take the photo exactly when you want to, which can be a major issue - even with a camera on a tripod.

Nigel