New Toy

Cody surprised me with a new toy for Christmas. I was shocked to open a new Canon Rebel xsi digital camera. The thing has barely left my hands for any length of time. I've loved playing around with it, but I have no clue what I am doing yet. Anyone who knows anything about photography can tell I have no clue in the following photos. Anything that looks good is pure luck. But I hope to find out more about the settings with time.

The first thing I wanted to try with the camera was the fancy technique I love where the background is blurry. I ran into my in-laws' sun room to practice on some pretty pink flowers.
Then, I got out the incredible telephoto lens that Cody also gave me in order to take action shots of the kids riding their new bikes. I was far, far away when this close-up of Nate's face was taken.
Oooh, and look at my artistic framing of a blurry bike-riding Ava between the strong trees. Pure accident, but I like it.
I used the telephoto lens here also. Turns out it comes in handy for taking unsuspecting photos of a two year old who is determined not to get his picture taken. That mouth...those sweet little lips!
I followed the kids around today and either forced them to pose for me (see below)
..or tried to catch them doing their everyday ordinary activities (see below.)

I really wish I knew what I was doing. All too often I get blurry shots, pictures that seem to be tinted too orange-y, way too dark shots, or all of the above. I've tried reading about the camera, but it is information overload. Maybe I can sign up for a class soon. But I am not going to let lack of knowledge prevent me from taking zillions of pictures. With these adorable kids running around here, I can't help myself. I am really loving this new toy!