@khopev wrote:
Hello,
they are telling me to press down the the Av button while I turn the button right behind the shutter button.
The instructions you quote are correct if you want to shoot specifically in full Manual mode.
If all you want to do is control the Depth of Field (i.e. what's in focus), and have the camera set up the shutter speed, then you are better off to set the camera to Av on the mode dial. The following instructions work for that. I would recommend using Av mode if you are just starting off.
1. You FIRST turn the mode dial to Av.
That now sets the camera to allow you to select the aperture and it will select the shutter speed and (if you have auto ISO set, that too).
2. Look through the viewfinder and GENTLY half-press the shutter to see the current settings.
3. THEN immediately after releasing your finger from the shutter button, and using the same finger, turn the dial directly behind the shutter button to the desired value to change the Aperture. If you look through the viewfinder while doing so you should see the aperture value change.
Note: you will not see a significant change in what appears to be in focus, that is because the camera continues to keep the aperture fully open to let you get the most light for composition until you take the shot. It will then set the aperture and shoot.
4. Once you have the desired setting fully press the shutter button.
I recommend downloading the manual (if you don't have one) HERE and read that. Av is explained on P110.
cheers, TREVOR
The mark of good photographer is less what they hold in their hand, it's more what they hold in their head;
"All the variety, all the charm, all the beauty of life is made up of light and shadow", Leo Tolstoy;
"Skill in photography is acquired by practice and not by purchase" Percy W. Harris
