

We'd recommend that aspiring shooters consider adding the $199 Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX Lens as a good prime lens (which means it has a fixed focal length with no zoom) for candids, street shooting and portraits. The Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II AF-S DX NIKKOR Zoom Lens that comes with the Nikon D3300 kit is good for general shooting, but one of the advantages of a DSLR is that you get access to a huge range of other lenses. Some key controls on the D3300 include the Control dial (A), MENU button (B) and "i" button (C). However, as you get more comfortable with photography, Manual mode can help you get difficult shots in which you want a particular effect that the camera can't execute on its own. If you are a novice, this mode often does more harm than good. The camera will warn you if the exposure is off, but it won't stop you. M – Manual: You set both shutter speed and aperture. The camera will adjust the aperture (size of the lens opening) to insure you get a proper exposure.Ī – Aperture Priority: You set the aperture using the Command dial, and the camera sets the shutter speed. S – Shutter Priority: You set the shutter speed using the Command dial on the back of the camera, where your right thumb rests. The camera adjusts the shutter speed and aperture, and gives you the option to adjust a few other settings (which we'll explain). P – Program: This mode is best for general shooting.

AUTO – Auto: The camera makes all the decisions.
