SLR help for a noob. (D70)

[Akilldema]

Got a really crazy deal on a Nikon D70 SLR with a Sigma DC 2.8-4.5 lens. Camera is sweet, only problem is I have no idea how to use it or where to begin. Obviously I can do auto mode, but the other settings... Any advice?

[Kaneman]

I own a D70, but your question is extremely vague. It works like any other SLR camera as far as speed, aperture, and ISO so if you have basic camera knowledge than its an easy transition. The D70 will also do Commander mode for wireless strobes like the SB600, 800 and 900.

I suggest picking up a Magic Lantern guide to the D70 for starters.

[EpyonXero]

RTFM. seriously, the only way to learn it is to read the manual and practice taking pictures with different settings. you might want to Google basic photography to learn what the different adjustment parameters really mean.

[Akilldema]

The only camera knowledge I have is from point and shoot digital cameras I've had in the past. I've never really had something that had all of these settings, etc. I really don't even know what a lot of it means or does.

[Kaneman]

Originally Posted by Akilldema

The only camera knowledge I have is from point and shoot digital cameras I've had in the past. I've never really had something that had all of these settings, etc. I really don't even know what a lot of it means or does.

The D70 will take photographs just fine on you basic A setting, or the preset situational settings like Scene, Sports, Portrait etc.

BUT, if you're not going to use the actual camera settings then you're just lugging around a lot of extra weight and bulk for nothing, not to mention the money you spent. Definitely look into a basic photography class, usually they offer them at your local camera shop.

And as always there is tons of info online. BTW, I left my D70s outside once, in a monsoon, overnight around 3 years ago....and the damn thing still works!

Also, the D70 shoots a little underexposed so you'll want to keep that in mind.

[Papa_Complex]

What's the focal length range of that Sigma lens?

[Akilldema]

Yeah, I was thinking of a photography class actually. The money I spent - not a concern, I got a crazy bargain. Here's a pic of the lens, because I don't know enough to answer your question.

[Kaneman]

17-70 lens should be great to learn on. You get 2.8 at 17mm which will allow you to practice depth of field and the affect aperture and shutter speed settings have on your exposure.

I personally think Nikon glass is overrated, or perhaps I should say overpriced. I shoot professional gigs all the time with Tamron lenses and never have any complaint.

[Papa_Complex]

Originally Posted by Akilldema

Yeah, I was thinking of a photography class actually. The money I spent - not a concern, I got a crazy bargain. Here's a pic of the lens, because I don't know enough to answer your question.

The full meal deal is Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4.5. Like Kaneman said, it should be a reasonable lens to learn on. I would suggest that you find yourself a willing subject (a lawn gnome will do, if no women apply for the position) and start in aperture mode. Pick an area where you've got some background clutter and good light (outdoors perhaps), and try varying the aperture setting in steps from F2.8 through F11. Notice the shutter speed when you do it and how much is in focus. You may want to do this at ISO 200 or 400.

[goof2]

That is a pretty nice lens (retails around $450) and should do most of what you want in the beginning. There is a ton of information on the internet about using DSLRs. You may also want to go to the bookstore and get one of the guides that deals specifically with the D70, but there is as much free information available as you could ever want. Reading and information are good, but using the camera is your best resource. Shooting digital is free so have at it.