Which got me thinking about the things I would suggest anyone does when they get a new camera…

  1. Charge two batteries – It’s a pain when one runs out. If it was a film camera, you wouldn’t go out without a spare film so don’t go out without a second battery.
  2. Fix a UV filter to your default lens – They cost just a few pounds and they can save the front of your lens from getting scratched, which would probably mean most of its value being lost.
  3. Read the Quick Start Guide – It’s only the rudiments but it will… get you started.
  4. Make sure that you have the manual handy – Because there’s nothing worse than not having a way of finding out how to do something when you first think of it.
  5. Format a large memory card – Formatting in camera is usually best, and you may need one for the next step.
  6. Update the firmware – Manufacturers improve functions of their cameras and lenses from time-to-time – getting rid of bugs – you really don’t want a bug to ruin your first experience of the camera.
  7. Set the date and time – It’s SO much easier to find photos when you have done this from the outset.
  8. Add your name and contact details to the ‘data’ settings – If your camera was lost or stolen then you might be surprised how many thieves think that removing the battery resets everything, but they rarely reformat the SD-card – this way a kind finder will be able to return the kit!
  9. Set the dioptre – This makes sure that the images in your viewfinder are sharp.
  10. Select RAW image quality – You can get into why later but this makes sure that, from the outset, your pictures will be capable of being edited.
  11. Select point metering and make a note of how you did it – Giving you proper control over the exposure.
  12. Select single-point auto focus and make a note of how you did it – Giving you proper control over the focus.
  13. Select aperture priority – Which will give most people the most creative control to begin with.
  14. Check how half-button press is working – It locks focus and often exposure so that you can compose the picture properly.
  15. Set the ‘beep’ to how you prefer – You want it to reassure you without scaring the people you photograph.
  16. Make a note of the serial numbers on the camera body and lens – It makes insurance and warranty claims SO much easier.
  17. Register the kit with the manufacturer (if it’s new) – As above.
  18. Add the kit to your household insurance ‘valuables’ list – Most people don’t need to pay extra if their kit gets lost or stolen.
  19. Decide on a bag to carry it in to begin with – You will probably change your mind later, but have one for now that you are comfortable with and means that you will be ready to go at a moment’s notice.
  20. Fit a strap of some sort – The camera will have come with one, but many of us have a personal preference – a wrist strap, one that has quick releases, one that reminds us of the hippy we once wanted to be…

There’s probably lots of other things to do and, to be fair, you don’t need to do some until later, but it’s good to have them in the back of your mind.