The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XS/1000D Companion

Chapter 1. Getting to Know the Rebel XS

SHOOTING SNAPSHOTS USING FULL AUTO MODE

If you're new to the Rebel XS, then you're probably much more interested in doing some shooting than in reading a book. So, in this chapter I'm going to quickly get you up to speed on the camera's automatic features so that you can get out the door right away and start using the camera. One of the great things about the XS's design is that you can use it just like a point-and-shoot camera and then activate more sophisticated controls as you need them. This first chapter explains the fundamental concepts of camera and photographic technique that we'll build on through the rest of the book.

THE SET UP: BEFORE YOU CAN SHOOT WITH THE REBEL XS

If you haven't yet set up your camera, you need to do a few things before you can shoot with it. Fortunately, the XS's manual is very good, and you can learn everything you need to know about setup by reading the following sections of the manual:

• While the camera battery may have a little charge when you first unpack the camera, it's best to give it a good refueling before you head out to shoot. Read pages 24–26 of the Rebel XS manual to learn about charging and installing the battery.

• You'll need a Secure Digital (SD) memory card for your camera. The Rebel XS does not ship with a card, so you'll need to buy one. Any photography store or electronics store should carry them. ...