Even if the camera you have is not an expensive one, you can still get more out of it. If there are more settings than just fully automatic, use them.
One option is a setting that is often termed "shutter priority." You can use that to set the shutter speed YOU want for whatever you are shooting, versus the camera choosing it for you. Do you want to freeze action? Set the shutter speed higher, choosing at least 1/500th of a second or faster. If you have plenty of light (especially daylight), then set it for 1/1000th of a second or faster. That can freeze very fast action, like where you can start seeing individual water droplets from a splash around a swimmer. If you wish to have some motion blur on action shots, slow the shutter speed down to 1/200th of a second or slower (preferably slower if you have a tripod or monopod or can lean against something to steady yourself and the camera - like 1/100th of a second or slower). Having a portion of the action stopped and in focus, while the rest of the action is blurred (like a rider and horse's head being sharp while the horse's legs are blurred when it is running), can create an artistic effect.
There are other options to use, as well. Be sure to explore everything your camera can offer. Read the manual! Photography is about more than just the camera. You might just find you have the eye of a photographer.
One option is a setting that is often termed "shutter priority." You can use that to set the shutter speed YOU want for whatever you are shooting, versus the camera choosing it for you. Do you want to freeze action? Set the shutter speed higher, choosing at least 1/500th of a second or faster. If you have plenty of light (especially daylight), then set it for 1/1000th of a second or faster. That can freeze very fast action, like where you can start seeing individual water droplets from a splash around a swimmer. If you wish to have some motion blur on action shots, slow the shutter speed down to 1/200th of a second or slower (preferably slower if you have a tripod or monopod or can lean against something to steady yourself and the camera - like 1/100th of a second or slower). Having a portion of the action stopped and in focus, while the rest of the action is blurred (like a rider and horse's head being sharp while the horse's legs are blurred when it is running), can create an artistic effect.
There are other options to use, as well. Be sure to explore everything your camera can offer. Read the manual! Photography is about more than just the camera. You might just find you have the eye of a photographer.
