Depth of Field

DPS has weekly assignments, and I figured this was a great place to start for practice. This week's assignment was on depth of field. This was my first real venture out where I restricted myself regarding auto settings. The first thing I discovered I needed to learn how to properly use my tripod. I figured it out (with DH's help) after taking these pictures, and made do with some unstable support.

Exposure Time = 1/250"

F Number = F5.6
Exposure Program = Manual
ISO Speed Ratings = 1250
Date Time Original = 2009-03-31 19:22:22
Components Configuration = YCbcr
Shutter Speed Value = 7.97 TV
Aperture Value = 4.97 AV
Exposure Bias Value = ±0EV
Metering Mode = Pattern
Flash = Flash did not fire, compulsory flash mode
Focal Length = 50mm
Color Space = sRGB
Exposure Mode = Manual exposure
White Balance = Auto white balance
Scene Capture Type = Normal

Evening was at hand, and I realized I had no idea how to adjust the shutter speed. Such a basic thing! The camera manual was inside, so I couldn't look it up right away. This is part of the reason I'm starting this blog. I want to be able to look back and see how far I've come!

Today's lessons:
Tripod - If you pull the tabs out too far, the legs lock up. Find the middle ground for adjusting.
Shutter Speed Adjustment - from page 90 of the manual: "While looking at the LCD panel, turn the mail dial." I knew it had to be simple.