Where to learn

[sclewin]

What are some good resources, preferably free, to learn about digital SLR's and photography in general? Something like online articles, books, tutorials, and similar. Also, do people here have any suggestions, tips, hints, or wisdom to pass onto a beginner wanting to learn?

[Barefoot]

Other than this site? Well, try this one. It's pretty decent.

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/

[jjeling]

Marko's podcasts are a great way to learn. They are here on the forum. Also Ive started a thread on here called the tips and tricks thread. You will find it in the off-topic section. Another great place to learn stuff in general, your cameras handbook. Check that stuff out and you will learn a lot. Even professionals still consult their camera's manual from time to time. Outside of that, we are a great resource here. Don't be afraid to ask any questions. We all started where you are at now. All depends on what your questions are and what you want to know.

[Lovin]

Check the blog (photography.ca) and on iTunes store - podcasts about photography (Canada Store) made by Marko, and are free.

Listen all the podcasts and for sure you're gonna improve your skills fast (if you practice).

[casil403]

I've learned more in the last month than I've ever learned by joining this forum, reading the articles on here, submitting photos for c&c's and receiving feedback (and encouragement) from members, and looking at other members photos.
A book I bought before I joined this forum (one of many) that helped me was "The Digital Photography Book" by Scott Kelby. It's full of tips, it's simply written in plain English and he throws humour around as well. This guy aslso has written books on Photoshop as well. Highly recommended. I got at Chapters online and I know it's on Amazon as well.
Hope that helps....

[F8&Bthere]

And don't discount your local library. I'm always surprised at how many art and photography books they have available.
Some books I bought online- the ones I feel are so useful that I want them for long term reference, like some of Kelby's books as mentioned above- some I borrowed from the library, and then I downloaded lots of podcasts to my mp3 player so I can even learn while I walk the dog, relax, drive (if your car radio has mp3 capabilities and you're driving alone), etc.
I didn't try to research your location from your profile or previous posts, but you may also have the occasional photography course, seminar, or workshop available near you. You might keep an eye on the local paper's coming events section, contact a local arts/cultural center, google around, check out any known local area websites that promote local events, etc
I'm in a town of about 11,000 people and we have a couple of these every year at the cultural center in town- they are very inexpensive and unintimidating. In fact, There were only 2 DSLRs in my group of about 11 students, the rest were point & shoots. It was under $100 as I recall for 4 sessions. I actually found it to be too basic for me- I'll wait until they do an advanced course and try again.