This three-hour program targets the amateur customer who either owns or is considering stepping up to Canon’s EOS 30D, 40D or even EOS 5D cameras.

Photography basics forms the foundation of this program, opening with discussions of exposure basics, the cameras’ metering systems and options, and creative use of the ISO setting. Flash basics are discussed, for both the built-in flash as well as accessory speedlites. Explanations of using the cameras’ Histogram display, the various Autofocus options, and the effect of different lens focal lengths round out the first module. This is followed by a 10-minute break, where attendees can either sample Canon equipment hands-on at a table in the room, or ask detailed questions of the presenter and other Canon and HCE staff at the event. Light refreshments are also provided.

The program changes gears after the break, now explaining various digital basics. The “lens conversion factor” of the 30D and 40D cameras, digital basics such as resolution, compression, and RAW vs JPEG imaging, are examined in detail. Then, the in-camera controls exclusive to digital cameras such as white balance and Parameters (or Picture Styles) are illustrated and explained, with an eye toward the first-time digital SLR owner. If you already own one of these cameras, make sure you bring it with you so that you can follow along with the instructor.

The final hour is devoted to looking at the cameras’ Custom Functions, with a quick listing of commonly used ones and what they do. From there, the program switches to the computer — detailing what is possible in even the basic “digital darkroom”, with an emphasis on easy printing techniques to any inkjet printer, using basic software included with Canon’s cameras. We conclude with a visually exciting demonstration of composition techniques, using images from Canon’s esteemed Explorers of Light photographers.

Complete event specifics and secure online registration are below.