Camera Settings

[big911dog]

I have just become the proud owner of a D-SLR (Rebel XT).

I'm having problems with taking pics near the bottom of my DT. The halides in conjunction with the Oolitic sand wreak havoc and make my pics seem overexposed whenever sand is in the pic. Anyone have any suggestions on camera settings?
Also, I have 14k bulbs. Anyone have input on switching to 10k's for purposes of photography?
Thanks in advance!

 

[traps]

What settings are you using? Auto or manual focus? Lens?
First try using manual focus, the auto focus may just be trying to get the sand before anything else. Manual focus is simple; zoom to where you'd like then turn the focus ring until everything is looking clear. Thats the quickie instructions.
Or try:
If using the kit lens click the knob over to "Tv" mode, thats Shutter-priority. Turn the dial thingy behind the shutter button and take your shutter speed to 100 (located on top left of the LCD screen. Will be a number just above "AWB".), if still too bright take it to 150, still too bright take it higher and etc. Manual focus will help too.
And as far as changing bulbs just for the photos, no, just need to find the certain settings on the camera that will make your photos look the best. Can't say I've had to shoot under 14k bulbs but I get plenty of bright daytime shots in real sunlight.
Congrats on getting the camera, you're gonna love it!

 

[sagxman]

You might also want to manually adjust the white balance. Metal halides and tungsten halogen lamps can sometimes wreak havoc with what your camera perceives as true white.
You may also play with your aperture and shutter speed. Eventually you'll find a setting that works for you. I would stay away from the fully auto mode. It can cause more harm than good when photographing such specific things.