Originally posted by kbSR1 I used AV mode and adjusted with EC. I run into difficulty when the subject is in shadows, and I cannot compensate.
As wonderful as Av mode is, and I use it all the time, but in tricky lighting scenes, try TAV,(Changes the ISO to match your preferred TV and Av) or Manual (use the ISO button on top of the K-5 and rear dial to change ISO). You could try the in-camera HDR as well, I think the k-5 delivers good results without looking overprocessed.
Originally posted by kbSR1 I have seen some cameras on youtube that show ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speed in the LV and let you adjust them in that view.
In the menu with the Camera icon, tab 4, scroll to "live view" , enter, slect "info overlay" and you should see all you need in Live View.
Originally posted by kbSR1 Time for more practice with full manual mode
Yes.
Originally posted by kbSR1 Not sure what you mean by the single in of daily challenges. I'm a newbie to this site.
In my Signature are link to both groups. The value of joining one or both is in the loosely held "Challenge" is to have a reason to take a picture every day and post, and in all likelihood, several people will see it and provide a reaction ranging from nodding acknowledgement, to some useful critique, to fully expressed accolades and praise. The other benefit is in participants generally gaining a better understanding of their gear at the end of the month than when they started.