hi,
i have a nikon coolpix 8700 i take pictures on my job, they handed me the camera w/o a manual, i went on line and printed one off,i've always took pictures never really that great but love doing it, i'm a real DA when it comes to comprehending reading instructions of the manual, is there help out there for people like me as far as understanding how to set the aperture on cameras etc.

Sandra,

There are several tutorials on this site where you can learn the basics, plus IF you google the web you will also find many sites that have some information for the newbie, etc.

In short, it's just a case of searching the NET, looking in various photography chat forums and filtering out the helpful info that will assist you the most

It's either that - or enroll in a short basic photography course in your local area.