Clear Christmas Portraits

[Erica]

I just recently bought my D7i, and haven't had too much time to play around with it. My problem is this, I just can't seem to get clear pictres. I am using a tripod, and I still get the "shake" symbol. I am using auto focus because I can't tell from looking at the screen or thru the viewfinder whether something is in focus or not. I have tried using the af & the switching to mf, but I just can't seem to get it. Any tips? Thanks guys. :?

[KCan]

Originally Posted by Erica

I still get the "shake" symbol

Erica,
You get « shake » symbol because there is not enough light to allow a sufficient fast shutter speed , no matter how the camera is fixed or handheld.

Originally Posted by Erica

I can't tell from looking at the screen or thru the viewfinder whether something is in focus or not. I have tried using the af & the switching to mf, but I just can't seem to get it

You can use the x4 magnification to be able to focus with more precision.

In “wide area AF” ( the normal mode) , the AF will choose 1 of 3 areas , which one give the best contrast, so pay attention to the confirmation ( the brief red rectangle) to be sure it’s the detail you want to focus on.
“Spot” and “Flex” AF are also very useful , try these modes.

[Erica]

Thank ye kindly

[NHL]

You might want to try to lift the flash up, the shake symbol will automatically go away... and turn the sound on so the camera beeps at you when the AF has a lock if you can't tell the difference.

[Erica]

I was trying to not use the flash, as the pictures come out very harsh & unnatural, but I will try to get more light in my shots.

[NHL]

Foldable reflectors from window light might be a solution for you... They come in white/gold/silver, or all 3 with the LiteDiscs from Photoflex:

http://www.photoflex.com/photoflex/index.html