why does my camera (EOS REBEL XS) take blurry pictures

[plc4d]

why does my camera (EOS REBEL XS) TAKE BLURRY PICTURES?

[Waddizzle]

"We have a fellow on the forum that gets stunning results from the very same lens you have.

Av mode is my most preferred way of shooting wildlife. A fixed ISO is also my preferred way. BTW, kido, almost never too never use f32. Also M mode isn't preferred or necessary."

He is shooting with a 75-300mm kit lens, not a 70-300mm.

The one issue with shooting in Av mode is that it is a good idea to disable "Safety Shift".  If not, the camera may override your exposure settings to get a proper exposure, if shooting conditions require it.

[Crazydoglady]

Thank you so much. That’s exactly what i was looking for! Just tell me what to set it at! I’ve spent so much time trying to figure this thing out! I’ll take some pics and let you know how it goes!

[Crazydoglady]

I am shooting with a 75-300 lens

[Crazydoglady]

Ebiggs THANK YOU!! I just took a bunch of pictures and they are fantastic! I have to get them on the laptop to show you. I still don’t really know why those settings work 🤓 but at least i can get started! I really appreciate your help.

[Waddizzle]

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@Crazydoglady wrote:
Ebiggs THANK YOU!! I just took a bunch of pictures and they are fantastic! I have to get them on the laptop to show you. I still don’t really know why those settings work 🤓 but at least i can get started! I really appreciate your help.

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The camera settings advice that Ernie suggested is only a starting point.  It is up to you, the photographer, to learn how to adapt to varying shooting conditions and subjects.  Take a look at the first two posts in this recent thread I created.

https://community.usa.canon.com/t5/General-Camera-Discussion/Canon-YouTube-Video-Series/td-p/269237 

I would encourage you to watch all of the videos in the first link, and then watch them again after gaining some experience.

[ebiggs1]

Crazydog lady,

"Ebiggs THANK YOU!! I just took a bunch of pictures and they are fantastic!"

This is exactly what I wanted to hear. It is music to my ears.  

"The camera settings advice ... is only a starting point."

This is very true.  It does have a caveat though.  Those settings with that camera/lens combo and daylight will almost always give you good results. So, a starting point, yes, but a working point too.

Watch your settings in the viewfinder to make any necessary adjustments.  Perhaps a cloud or two enters in to the shot which will require you to up the ISO for instance.  Or, maybe slow the SS but trying to maintain at least 1/500. As you get more experience and on-the-job-training, if you will, you will get even better. I'd say you are well on your way now so go have fun!

BTW, do share a shot or two!