Quick Start Guide to Using a DSLR Camera

With technology getting cheaper many people may opt to buying a DSLR. What is a DSLR you ask? It is simply a camera with a big sensor that allows the user to change lenses when they want. A DLSR camera will allow you to take very large pro level pictures that can be used for business or personal use. The following guide will show you the basics to getting started with most if not all DSLR cameras.

You will need the following to complete this quick start guide. Most if not all of these items will come with a standard DLSR starter kit.

1. DLSR Camera
2. Batteries/Battery Charger
3. Lens of choice
4. Memory card
5. Lens/Camera caps
6. Something to take a picture of

For this guide we used a Canon 5D Mark iv, Canon 50mm f/1.4, Canon battery LP-E6, and a Lexar Professional 256Gb SDXC card. At the end of this guide you will be able to quickly start taking pictures and improving your craft.

Disclaimer: Presentations are intended for educations purposes only. Statements of fact and opinions expressed are those of the creator. I do not sponsor, endorse or otherwise approve any of the equipment used. While every effort and care is taken in preparing the content of this site, Jason Kish disclaims all warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy of the information in any of the content. It also (to the extent permitted by law) shall not be liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information on this demonstration. It is also not liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of, or reliance on this demonstration, or the internet generally. Please use your user manual that comes with your equipment as that will show you the most accurate information for your setup.

Wether you are buying brand new or buying used it is always recommended to charge the batteries before getting started. For my camera you simply take the battery with the terminals down and to the left. You should see a directional arrow showing you the direction to slide the battery. Insert the battery into the charger and slide till it stops. Once inserted simply plug into a household outlet. For my charger it blinks to show it's charging and a green light to show it's completely charged. For your set up double check the manual to see how long to charge your battery.

Grab your camera body and locate the battery door. The battery door can have different latching mechanisms. For our example it has a small button you have to slide very slightly for it to open. Once its open verify that the battery terminals line up with the terminal in the camera body. Simply slide the battery in until it clicks and locks in. Close the battery door and verify it is secure.

Turn the camera body around till you see the front body cap. Locate lens release button on the side and press. While pressing rotate the body cap counter clockwise until it releases from the body. Caution! Keep exposed mirror and sensor pointing down to prevent any dust or debris from entering and damaging the internals.

Place the camera body down and pickup your lens. Locate the rear lens cap (pictured) and rotate it counter clockwise. Caution! Be very careful to keep dust and debris from entering the rear of the lens. Any moisture, dust, dirt, etc. can cause major damage to the lens internals.

Take your lens and line the two red dots located on your lens and camera body and rotate clockwise till an audible click. Please note that your camera and lens may not have red dots but it will be some kind of marking meant for alignment. Double check that the lens is secure with a slight rotation counterclockwise. It should not rotate if secure.

Locate your memory card door and slide it open. Grab your memory card and check the picture on the memory card door for the direction needed for insertion. Insert card as pictured and verify it is secure. Close the memory card door to prevent dirt or debris from entering the camera.

Locate power button and slide it to the on position. Check your manual for exact location.

Find your mode dial and turn it to the auto setting. For this model you have to press down first on the center button and then rotate the dial. Your camera may say auto or like this model it says A+. This will make your camera automatic and which will change from scene to scene.

Locate your front lens cap and squeeze the two outer buttons. While pressing pull the cap off.

Now to the fun part! Put your right hand on the grip with your finger on the shutter button. Take your left hand and hold the lens. Now bring the viewfinder to your eye and aim the camera at whatever you would like to take a picture of. Simply push the shutter button to focus and take a picture.

Here is a run through from start to finish. You are now capable of taking pictures and can practice your craft in the real world! Thank you for using this guide and happy hunting for the best shot!