Tips on How to Get the Best Shot by Using a Canon 450D
The Canon 450D (known as the Digital Rebel XSi in North America) is a DSLR aimed at serious amateurs. Because it has several features, and the ability to be fitted with various lenses, the Canon 450D is capable of producing outstanding images under the right conditions. But it's vital to gain at least a basic understanding of how this camera works before attempting to get the best shots.
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Use the Creative Modes
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The Automatic option on the Canon 450D is intended for beginners--keen amateurs who haven't mastered the basics and who want to get to know the camera before taking the next step up. As soon as you move from Automatic to Creative modes, however, you're giving yourself the best chance to take superb photos. You can set your aperture priority, shutter speed, ISO speed and white balance, which the camera can't always accurately predict when it's set to Automatic.
Use Live View
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The 450D is the first Canon consumer DSLR to feature the Live View option, which makes it easier to shoot from uncomfortable positions, or from a tripod. Another advantage is the image on the Live View is much larger than the LCD on the back panel, which allows for more accurate focusing. The Live View will help you compose your image thanks to a grid line display and live histogram.
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Use an External Flash
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The Canon 450D has an inbuilt pop-up flash, but this won't be of much use if you want to take an outstanding portrait or night image. The inbuilt flash isn't powerful and doesn't provide the necessary light in very dark situations. A detachable external flash, which usually has to be purchased separately, is the answer--it provides many additional options and is maneuverable so you can control exactly where the flash will focus.
Activate High ISO Noise Reduction
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Increasing ISO speed is essential--it allows your camera to take photos at a faster speed, which is invaluable when you're shooting action scenes or taking night photos. Unfortunately, the higher your ISO, the more grain is introduced, which degrades quality. The Canon 450D has a solution: High ISO noise reduction allows you to increase noise reduction when shooting at a high ISO. Because it slows down the rate at which you can shoot continuously, it's only an optional feature, but if your intention is to take a high-quality shot, it may be worth using it.
Experiment With Lenses
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Many professional photographers believe it's the quality of the lens rather than the camera that determines how good your photos will be. Invest in a series of lenses, ranging from zoom lenses (those which can vary the distance at which they focus), wide-angle lenses (for landscapes), macro lenses (for close-ups) and telephoto lenses (for shots at a distance such as sports events and wildlife).
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References
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- Photo Credit Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
