DSLR
This guide is specific to the Canon 200D but is transferrable to other DSLR type cameras.
Watch this quick beginner's guide.
1.0 Basic Use
Below are some items that may help resolve common issues. A full user guide can be found in each Kit Bag or should be available online.
1.1 Photo-mode
Switching the camera to ON will enter photo mode. Use the mode selector wheel to choose a particular shooting mode.
Program (P) mode allows automatic and basic functions. This mode is recommended for testing the cameras basic functionality.
Shutter Priority (Tv or S) The user can set the Shutter speed, other controls are automatic.
Aperture Priority (Av or A) The user can set the Aperture value, other controls are automatic.
Manual Exposure (M) all controls need to be set manually by the user
Intelligent auto (A+ or Ai) mode is controlled fully by the camera.
These are the main camera modes, however each camera is different and my have a different set of modes. Please consult the camera specific user guidebook for more information.
Located inside kit bag?
1.2 Video-mode
Depending on the model of the camera, the switch for video-mode or movie-mode may vary in location. It will generally have a similar symbol. To begin recording footage, hit the Red record button. To stop recording, simply hit the record button again.
Photograph of toggle / switch
1.3 Focus
Manual Focus (MF) v Auto-Focus (AF)
A switch can be found on the lens, allowing you to choose the type of focus mode you wish to shoot with.
Manual Focus allows the user specific control and is controlled by the focus ring toward the end of the lens.
Auto Focus simply automatically focuses the camera for you.
1.4 Changing the settings
There are many settings that can be altered and vary from camera to camera and will also depend on the use required. The general settings on the camera should be okay, however Students or staff may have altered the settings that need to be reversed.
Resetting the camera to its default settings can typically be found through:
Menu > Function OR Function settings > Clear settings OR Restore to factory settings
Still can't find it? Please refer to the user manual for the specific camera or ask an experienced staff member.
Recommended settings:
Typically you will want to set the camera to the highest quality setting.
Menu > Shooting Settings
Image Quality:
RAW + L (jpeg)
RAW photos allow users a higher degree of manipulation for post-processing, the files are typically much larger, but retain more information. These photos will need to be opened in an application such as Adobe Lightroom for exporting and post processing.
JPEG photos are usable straight from the SD card can be viewed in basic photo viewers and imported into most programs hassle free. Large Jpeg quality
Video Quality:
FHD 50FPS (Full High-Definition, 50 frames per-second) or 4K (4000 pixels width)
1.5 Changing a Lens
Some of the camera kits contain multiple lenses. Lenses are expensive and must be taken care of during a lens change or storage.
Prepare the lens you wish to change by having it near the camera body. Ensure you are in a clean environment. You want to avoid getting dust or dirt on the lens or inside the Camera body mirror assembly, cleaning of these areas should be done by a staff member with experience and can lead to permanent damage if not done correctly.
Removing a lens from the body
Press the lens release button on the camera body, twisting the lens in an anti-clockwise direction. Ensure the dust cap is screwed on to the lens mount end. Never leave the lens without a dust cap. Follow the instructions below for replacing the lens to the body. A dust cap needs to be fitted to the camera body if no lens is being attached for storage.
Image illustration
Replacing a lens to the body
Remove the lens dust cap
Align the lens mount to the camera body using the RED DOT or WHITE SQUARE indicators. twist the lens clockwise until it locks into place.
Image illustration
1.6 Formatting the SD Card
Formatting the SD card is the best way to clear the data and ensure the card is formatted correctly for the camera. It is best to keep a clear card before handing the camera over to students or staff, this means they won't have to worry about running out of space or dealing with other peoples photos whilst trying to import.
Before you start make sure all the photos are backed up on a computer (if the photos are old from many students use it is assumed they have backed up any media before handing it back to the loans desk.)
Navigate to the Menu by clicking the menu button. Scroll through the menu items using the navigation buttons or touchscreen. Click on Format / Format Card.
The card will now take some time clearing all the Data currently on the card. It will also format the card to suit the camera it is in. Click on the menu button to exit the menu settings panel & resume you selected camera mode.
Screengrab of memory on camera
2.0 Care Instructions
2.1 Taking care of the Camera assembly
Ensure each lens is fitted with a lens protector (or UV filter).
Clean the Lens face, Digital screen & Viewfinder window glass using a clean microfiber cloth, use a small amount of lens cleaning solution to remove any residue or dirt. Avoid wiping the lens with sand or significant particles that can scratch the glass. Dry wipe the body with a dust cloth. Use a lightly damp cloth to remove any significant muck from the lens body or camera body.
3. Detailed tutorials
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