DSLR Noob About to buy a camera

[KingBlingTx]

I have a question for you photo pros. I have never had a DSLR camera, but I'm about to go make the investment. I'm really having a mental struggle on whether or not the cost difference is justified between the Canon EOS Rebel T2 and the ($400 cheaper) Canon EOS Rebel XS. For the price difference, I can practically buy a macro lens.

So, for the novice, is there REALLY that much difference? I am primarily buying this camera to use to capture great sports shots of my kids, but will definitely be doing some aquarium shots as well.

Thanks for your input!!

 

[BlueCorn]

Both will take excellent images when used properly. That said, I can't recommend the XS to anyone. They dumbed it down too much, IMO, making it difficult to use in anything but automatic modes.

 

[BlueCorn]

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1503490

 

[KingBlingTx]

Thanks for the feedback. I'm now trying to decide between the Canon EOS Rebel T2i and the Nikon D90. The Nikon is more expensive (and doesn't include the telephoto lens), so I'm wondering if there is something you guys might add to help me in that decision.

 

[jchase1970]

I'ld just buy the XS and invest the savings into another lens, It's a nice camera and your new to DSLR anyway. Any features that have been dumbed down are most likely stuff you will never use or not want to use for years.

 

[jedininja]

I would not get the XS. As said, its a stripped down dslr. Its pretty much a point and shoot with interchangable lens. If you want to go cheaper and get a better lens (better lens always a good idea) then I would go with something like the canon XSi. You can still find them new for really good prices.

Both the T2i and D90 are great cameras. I would go with what is more comfortable in your hands. Ergonomics are very important when you've been out shooting for a day.

 

[Machupicchu]

The xs is literally a point and shoot for people who want to look cool.
Id buy a used 30D for the same price as the T2

 

[Footbag]

I have an XS that I use for astrophotography and have a few friends with the XSi. I also have a T1i. There are two or three things that the XSi has that the XS doesn't. I'll ignore MP's because they aren't as important as the others.

1. Proximity sensor - When you put your eye up to the camera, the XSi turns off the LCD. The XS doesn't.

2. Larger LCD - The XSi has a larger LCD. FWIW.

3. 12 vs. 14-bit processing- The XSi has 14-bit processing which can produce better images, but you may or may not be able to see the difference.

The XS is considerably better then a P&S. But the XSi is worth the extra money. Now I'm not crazy about my T1i. And unless you need video, I wouldn't even consider it. Go with some nice glass and the XSi.

 

[KingBlingTx]

Well, I finally made my decision this afternoon and bought a......Canon EOS 7D. It should do more than I ever need, so I won't be questioning my decision (I hope!)

There was a bundled deal at Best-Buy that included the camera, a telescopic lens (image stabilized), and a bag. So I gave in and just went for it. Now I have to learn how to use the thing!! LOL

 

[jedininja]

Good buy. I just got a 7D a few months ago as well and love it.

 

[Celestin]

Well, I finally made my decision this afternoon and bought a......Canon EOS 7D. It should do more than I ever need, so I won't be questioning my decision (I hope!)

There was a bundled deal at Best-Buy that included the camera, a telescopic lens (image stabilized), and a bag. So I gave in and just went for it. Now I have to learn how to use the thing!! LOL

Hi, I was wondering why you decided to spend the extra cash to get a 7D when your original choices were the T2i and XS. I'm asking because I'm looking into getting my first DSLR and I'm undecided between the T2i and the XSi.

 

[KingBlingTx]

Well, after doing some reading I learned that there was definitely a difference in the quality of what they were calling the "mid-level" cameras vs the "entry-level". I figured that if I spent a little more on the front-end that would save me from having to "re-invest" that amount again + more to upgrade. I'm sure that I got more camera than I will ever need. Was it worth the extra money? I don't know, but at least I won't be second guessing whether I should've gotten a better camera. (btw- my wife didn't ask how much I spent on the new camera, so that'll be my little "secret" LOL)

 

[swjim]

The 7D is a really nice choice, it's an extremely capable body. Once you start getting used to the features you can figure out which additional gear would be best for your shooting style - lenses, flash(es), tripod, etc.

 

[Robb in Austin]

Cheap capable bodies and expensive glass is a better route. The bodies get upgraded every year or two, good glass will last a lifetime.

 

[KingBlingTx]

btw- I am blaming all you guys for the new "addiction"!!! LOL I've spent the last two weeks doing nothing besides thinking about photography.:hmm5:

I finally came to my senses and went and got some new denizens for the Nano tank we set-up a few weeks ago. (BTW- just received my new macro lens today, so I'll have to break it in.)

Here are some pics I took this weekend. Any critiques are welcome.

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