So... am I correct in saying, there are two ways to control light on a simple point and shoot, one being the focus and exposure lock with the shutter button, the other with the exposure controls. I think I'm understanding I can somehow use both these tools to get the pictures i'm looking for. Or maybe I have cameras with limited abilities and I might never get what I'm searching for. I guess the point of this thread is to gain some starting place to learn how take advantage of my camera and get the pictures I want. Maybe some type of foundation to start from and a "do this next" type approach. To whomever replies, thanks in advance for your patience.