I've done some searching and haven't found answers to these questions, but I apologize in advance if these discussions have been had.
As a little background, I hadn't used an SLR since high school (10 years) but loved it then and had been dying to get back into photography. I finally achieved that goal a few weeks ago when I purchased the 450d. I love the idea of picking this back up as a hobby and have been excited to get started, but it seems as though i've forgotten almost as much as I ever knew.
So for starters, I'm looking for a good book to read. I don't care if it's text book style, a how-to book, or more literary (if that's even an option), but I definitely want to re-learn. Doesn't have to be totally basic as I have some starting knowledge, and I've tried some online how-to's, but think I'm looking for something more in depth.
Also, I'm considering purchasing a new lens. I've got the kit lens now (18-55mm), but sort of miss the simplicity of having a fixed focal length, manual foucs lens that I used on the film slr a while back. Is there a model anyone would recommend, reason to spend more for a better one (I've got the money to spend if it's worth it), one that's better for manual focusing (though still have the option of AF)?
Lastly, going in the opposite direction, I'm going on an African safari in a couple months and wanted to get some thoughts on what to bring there. The current lens obviously doesn't have a ton of zoom, but don't know if I can rationalize spending what I'd need to on a new lens for this trip. Obviously I'd use it again, but you know.... So would you recommend looking into renting? Is there a less expensive multi-purpose telephoto lens to look into buying? Will the 55mm be enough? I've also considered purchasing an older lens and retrofitting -- thoughts?
Anyway thanks in advance for any help you can give. Can't wait to see the answers.
I see you have a Canon camera, so this website might be interesting for you (it certainly was for me when I tried to learn my DSLR): http://photonotes.org/articles/beginner-faq/
Don't know about general books about photography, as I only have special interest books (flash, light). Maybe you have a local library where you can look at some books?
As for the fixed lens: Many say you can't go wrong in buying a 50mm 1.8 II lens because it is very cheap compared to other lenses but you get a surprisingly good image quality.
I have a 17-55 2.8 IS zoom lens which is quite expensive but the image quality is really very good.
Take your time - don't buy too much at the same time, learn with the equipment you have.
Manual focusing in general could be a little harder because the viewfinder of your camera is smaller than it was on your film SLR because of the crop factor of the sensor.
Scott Kelby writes some awesome books. I have his "The Digital Photography Book", that and version 2 goes into depth on using your SLR and different techniques. As for a lens, I would recommend picking up a 70-200mm f/4L lens as it will give you range and in Africa, it is pretty bright, so you won't need anything with a wider aperture. They go for around $475 in the buy and sell forum here, so look into one of those. That lens will also give you a "full time manual focusing" option so you can grab the manual ring at any time and adjust while still being in AF.
