Laura, your camera can take a 16 second shot
Programmed Auto: 4 - 1/2000 sec
• Aperture Priority: 4 - 1/2000 sec
• Shutter priority: 4 - 1/1000 sec
• Manual: 16 - 1/1000 sec
that's your specs.
I just bought a cable release with a lock so I can try to do some more.
I just picked up a 12 exposure roll of Fujifilm Superia Reala 100ISO. Anxious to try it out.
As for centering, Here and there I've tried to practice the Rule of Thirds for placement of my subjects. For mor einformation on that go to
http://www.photo.net/learn/nature/ghopkins/comp3/
Blurred sister photo. Holy cow. You're right. If the cabinents were white it wouldn't stand out so much. My attention was on my sister. Good eye Laura. I'll have to be more careful of what is in the background.
I hear fireworks. going to try and get a photo of them