First pics...

Once you get your camera put together, get the battery inserted etc., you'll want to start snapping pictures. Canons have a dial (usually on top of the camera, called the mode dial) which allows you to select different "zones". I can tell you that I only use two: full auto and Av. Av is a relatively advanced mode that beginners needn't concern themselves with. Full auto is a green square.

For most people, FULL AUTO TAKES GREAT PICTURES MOST OF THE TIME!

Don't complicate your life unnecessarily! Take some time to get good taking pictures before you mess with more advanced photography!

A couple of other potentially interesting zones:
- Night portrait: takes better pictures in places that aren't bright (not just outside at night)
- Close-up or "macro": takes cool pictures when you're right on top of your subject (a closeup of a rose for instance taken from a few inches away)
- Sports: consider using this if you're taking pictures of things in motion, e.g., kids playing sports