First digital SLR

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Paddy on June 16, 2009 at 8:47am

Mike check out B&H this seems to be within your budget and it has free shipping.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/589090-REG/Canon__EOS_Rebel_X...

paddy

Permalink Reply by Mac Sokulski on June 16, 2009 at 8:49am

Obviously the XS is cheaper. It all comes down to what do you want to shoot. I mean camera features just makes things easier, in my mind they are not that important. As long as you have good lens attached to the camera. So ask yourself what do you want to shoot, check the features on both, and go with that. Personally I would go with a cheaper camera, but have some more cash for lenses.

Permalink Reply by Staale Sannerud on June 16, 2009 at 9:02am

If you are like me, the entry-level Canons are simply too small to fit my hand. If possible, try one out to see if this is an issue for you. A used 30D or 40D would be my initial suggestion if this is the case.

Permalink Reply by Dennis Arculeo on June 16, 2009 at 9:13am

Perhaps a referb 30-40-50D used might something to grow into. 8-10-15.1 Mpixels. I found the Rebels too small for my big hands.....D

Permalink Reply by Carlton Ward on June 17, 2009 at 11:27pm

Hi Michael,
Another thing to consider is weather. If you shoot out in the elements you may want the better build of the 20D/40D which are made from magnesium-alloy. I once had my 20D w/100-400mm lens get completely soaked in a downpour and after letting them both air dry for a couple of days, I cleaned them up and they both still work perfectly. I dont know that an XSi/Rebel would have survived that with their plastic bodies.
You may also check craigslist. I have had success buying & selling and just bought a used Canon 1Ds for $1100. I went to the person selling and took several test shots and ran through all the controls and when I was satisfied it was a solid camera, I handed him the $$. You may find a good combo for a camera & lens within your budget.
Good luck,
Carlton

Permalink Reply by Carlton Ward on June 17, 2009 at 11:37pm

http://nashville.craigslist.org/pho/1225175170.html

Permalink Reply by Marcia C on June 22, 2009 at 3:49pm

I have a Canon 20 D body only for sale. I bought it a little over 3 years ago. I have not used it since Feb. 2009 when I got my new 5 D II and started using my 40 D as my back up camera. I used the 20 D for a dedicated telephoto only camera all of 2008. It is in excellent condition.

I also have a few lenses for sale also

here is my link

http://www.pbase.com/mcolelli/canon_camera_and_lenses_for_sale

Permalink Reply by Mike Padgett on June 22, 2009 at 4:53pm

Hi Mike, I have been helping a friend shop for his first digital SLR lately. He has a budget similar to yours. My first stop was B&H (as Paddy suggested). I found some really good deals on used rebels as well as some other canon cameras. They have some used camera/lens combos rated @ 8 or 9 out of 10 that definately fall into your price range. I buy a lot of my equipment from B&H and trust them more than I would an individual when it comes to used equipment. I also agree that spending the money on a really good lens instead of on the camera body is a good idea. You'll never be satisfied with your work if you are shooting with a crappy lens! If you do buy from an individual put your hands on the camera and put it thru the paces before you fork over the cash! Good Luck! Mike