Reply To: Took some advice. Here's an update!

[cameraclicker]

You can get an up-to-date manual here:  http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/serviceDetail?m=load&directLink=Y&mid=3814B005&type=D&opt=1

Page 227 shows how to do the AF Microadjustment.

The manual should be able to tell you how to see your camera’s firmware version.  You can download current firmware from Canon’s web page if your firmware is too old.

Here is a target:  http://regex.info/i/FocusChart-v1.0-gray05.gif

And, notes:  http://regex.info/blog/photo-tech/focus-chart

 

If you don’t have a tripod, you can use a table, but a good tripod is better.

As EyeDocPhotog said, the 50 mm f/1.8 II is a good lens.  I have one.  I like it because it is light.  Its only failing is that it has a tiny focus ring because they don’t intend you to manually focus with it.  Optically it is fine and it even has a built in hood!

If you have the space, 85 mm to 135 mm is better for head and shoulders portraits.