canon rebel xt series camera

Before taking a picture make sure you:

1. have the camera turned on,
2. have inserted a CF memory card with space for pictures,
3. have the switch on the lens set to AF (auto-focus) and
4. have an appropriate mode set on the main mode dial.

To properly hold the camera, place your left hand under the lens. This helps stabilize the camera, while allowing you to adjust the zoom and focus.

Shutter button

The main shutter button is actually two buttons in one. You can press the main shutter button half-way down which activates the focus mechanism. It will also pop open and arm the flash (if needed) and gauge the proper exposure needed to capture the picture.

You should always be pressing the shutter button half-way down to "arm" the camera before taking a picture. If you decide to take a picture of a different angle or subject, then release the shutter button and press it halfway down again on your new subject. Holding the shutter button halfway down also locks your exposure and focus on the primary subject you've chosen. This also allows you to selectively focus the camera on subjects that might not be the dominant element or in the center of the frame.

Also be aware that when you press the shutter button halfway down, you may hear a loud "click" sound of the flash popping up. This can fool some people into thinking that a picture was taken. You must press the button all the way down in order to capture a picture.