I've had my D80 for about a year, but I'm still just using the pre-programmed modes. I'd love to start learning how to use the manual settings on my camera in order to achieve even better photos.
Do you have any good sites or books you can recommend that can explain the basics?
TIA!
Nothing wrong at all with the preprogrammed modes, if you are talking about AUTO, P, and "Scene" shooting modes. I personally use Aperture Preferred about 98% of the time, as I prefer to control aperture and let the camera set shutter speed. Beyond that, if you are referring to the various in-camera "processing" menus like Sharpness, Contrast, etc, you may want to just set your camera up on a tripod, photograph the same subject using various combinations of settings (keeping notes of which settings were used on each shot) and comparing the results on your computer, to decide which you like best. You can also do this with shutter speed and aperture, to see the effects of, for example, shallow vs deep depth-of-field
One of the most wonderful advantages of digital over film is the ability to experiment at essentially zero cost, and to be able to see some of the results immediately, via the camera's LCD, although scrutinizing the shots on your PC is much more effective.
I know that did not answer your question, and I'm sure others will offer suggestions concerning books and/or websites. There are some good online guides/tutorials specific to the D80. Just google
D80 guide and you'll get several.
