This camera is so easy to use, even a beginner can use it! Go with everything on automatic, and let the camera make the decisions for you. Be sure to use the Sensor-Shift and Digital Image Stabilization, to always get the exact shot, no matter how hard your hands shake. Use up to 28X zoom power, to get close-ups that tell the story, clearly. Use the generous 2.5" LCD screen to frame, choose and edit the shot. .