How to swap lenses and other DSLR basics?

[masp]

I'm getting my first DSLR and would like to make sure I do everything right from the start. What are the things you normally do when you first get your DSLR as far as testing the equipment, setting everything up etc.?

Also, when swapping lenses, are there any precautions to observe aside from pointing the camera body downwards to keep dust falling into the camera body? Thanks! :D

[Marko]

I change lenses quickly as well and keep the back rear cap in particular on until the last moment.

[Richard]

When you do swap lenses, don't forget to put the spare lens securely away. I put mine back in the lens case, but forgot to zip up the lid. When I picked up my camera bag the lens slipped out and rolled all the way down the stairs.

Amazingly it survived unharmed apart from a slight scuff to the plastic. But I have definitely learn't my lesson and always pack things away before I pick up the camera.

[Wicked Dark]

I do the same thing; I prep the ongoing lens before removing the one on the camera. The least amount of time the body is open the better. Olympus's dust removal system works great so far and I do all I can to keep things optimal. I also still change lenses in the darkest shade I can find - a hold over from my film decades.

[masp]

Interesting. You just reminded me about how the sensor doesn't like being exposed to direct sunlight, so perhaps you're on to something there.