New to SLR - Tips please +

[Scubadew1]

Going from Oly C5050Z to new toy. Just bought the Canon Rebel T1i, Sea & Sea housing, 10-17mm Fisheye lens, dome port, 60mm macro lens, flat port, and had two YS 110a strobes.

Have played with camera above water, but will be diving with it for the first time shallow, macro (Phil Foster Park, WPB area) and appreciate all info re settings, recommendations.

Bought it from Reef Photo and Tony suggested I first use the Ae setting to get to know the camera. All suggestions greatly appreciated! FYI, Reef Photo folks were very nice and patient with a crazy woman who couldn't make up her mind...

Debbie

 

[newmanl]

Hi Debbie,

If I understood your post, you're starting off with the 60 macro. If that's the case, here's what I'd suggest: start off in "M" (manual mode) and then set the aperture based on the subject at hand considering the depth of field (sometimes referred to as "depth of focus") you want or need. Macro, because of the close distances usually involved, often means you can shoot at f11-16. Next, set the shutter speed depending on focal length of the lens (usually suggested to be 1/focal length), the motion of the ocean and what you need to get the image you want (blur vs. sharp) - as a suggestion, maybe start with 1/90th or so. Then, if your strobes are compatible, just let e-ttl expose it for you - or, adjust the strobes output for the exposure you're looking for. The idea is to decide the depth of field and shutter speed based on what YOU want, then make the strobes work to make it happen, rather than let the rig start making compromises you may not want.

Macro exposure is relatively easy compared to wide angle, but focus is usually more difficult. I use manual focus - I pre-set the focus distance based on what magnification I want and then move the camera closer or further away until I have the subject in appropriate focus - then be quick on the trigger!

Here's a macro shot based on the above technique. I hope this helps.

Lee

 

[Scubadew1]

Beautiful picture and great ideas. Will try them this weekend.

Deb