Question for the shutterbugs

[EVEL Bug]

I am considering getting a new DSLR.  I currently have a Canon Digital Rebel (300D).  I was wondering if anyone has experience witht the current line of DSLR's Canon has out?  I would most likely be getting the body only since most of the time I shoot with a Tameron 18-200mm and I don't really need another kit lens taking up space in my bag.  My wallet is suggesting I go with the xs.  However, I could probably afford to get the t1i.  Any advice you can give would be appreciated.

[Unstable Tripod]

I can't help you.  I'm a Nikon guy.

[p220sigman]

Is there something that your current camera doesn't do that you want it to or do you just have new camera fever (I completely understand if you do)?  That would be the place to start in looking at a new one.  I have the same lense that you have and I find it to be limiting factor as far as shooting in low light, etc, so you may not see much difference in going to a new body.

[rogerw]

The second biggest limiting factor to a great picture, first being the photographer, is the lens.

What a difference going for better lenses makes. I am shooting with EF 16-35 f/2.8L, 24-70 f/2.8L and a 135 f/2 L on a EOS 20D body. The 135 is the best of the three. The 20D certainly should be upgraded to something like a 7D or 5D. But my budget is limited, I would actually keep the 20D and go for the 200 f/2.8L or 180 f/3.5L macro instead if I am really itching to buy something.

Since you did not invest that much in lenses, you can look at other brands like Nikon for example. I had make my investments in lenses and would be too costly to switch; not that I would wanted to. But you can, it is an option.

With Canon, T1i or T2i should do a great job. I don't think more pixels will necessarily mean better pictures. Bigger prints, yes; but amateurs like myself would not print something that big. I will instead invest in a 27" LCD monitor instead.

[austinado16]

^^All of the above^^ plus, think about what kind of photography you want to do and maybe that'll help you decide.  I only use my Canon DSLR for indoor, no flash, sports photography....so I chose my set up based on that.

BTW, that 135/2L is my next lens purchase but dang.....they're 850 used!

[EVEL Bug]

It's pretty much just want new camera fever. My 300d still does pretty much everything I need it to. As the girls get a little older and i get back into hiking, I'd like to do more outdoor photo. Better lens are on my shopping list, but that's going to be a little farther off.

[p220sigman]

As I said, I completely understand the wanting a new camera fever, I have a friend who is semi-pro now and always lets me know when she adds something to her arsenal.  I would guess that you have the lens you do for the same reason I have it.  It is a great walking around lens.  I had a 70-200 f/4L that was a great lens, but I found that when I would travel I either didn't take it unless I had specific pictures I wanted to take or I didn't take my DSLR because of the bulk of the "kit".  I now have a small case that holds my camera with the Tamron lens attached, charger for the batteries and spare cards.  I take it everywhere now.  I will upgrade the lens at some time in the future, but there are too many things competing for my disposable income (me and the kids are starting to get into RC cars) to even consider a new lens at this point.

I say that if you have the funds, go for it with a new body.  You should be able to sell your old one to offset the cost some.

[kevmann]

Wow I didnt realize how old this thread was! I really enjoy taking pictures but I am definately an ametuer.  Not sure if I spelled that correctly.  I have a very basic Pentax DSLR.  I would love to upgrade and use my basic camera as a beater for camping and so fourth. Maybe you could upgrade and use your old DSLR for a beater.  Its always nice to have a back up body.  I too agree that good lenses go a long way and the good ones cost more than a new body most of the time.

Good luck,

Kevin

[EVEL Bug]

Kevin,
Since I started this thread a while ago, I got a lot more serious into photo.  I did get a new Canon T1i.  I also enrolled in a photography course at the New York Institute of Photography.  It's a very in depth course and in the couple months I've been working on it, my photography has improved greatly.   I am really looking forward to getting some pictures while camping this summer.  If you are interested, I have a blog of some of my pictures at my photography blog.

[oreo57]

Photography blog link is'nt working ??

[kevmann]

Thank you.  I also tried the blog and wasnt able to get on it.

Kevin

[Chuck S]

The only problem with the good DSLR cameras is their size and bulk.  I bought a very nice "non-professional" Canon XSi two summers because I was tired of the poor quality photos of my pocket digital cameras.  I've found this camera to be so darn bulky that I rarely take it out of the house despite buying a nice zoom lens for it,

My "everyday" digital isn't SLR but the Panasonic FZ35 Lumix view finder looks at the electronic image for QSLR (quasi SLR).  Much handier.  Will take RAW format photos for those who want to manipulate at the pixel level.

-- Chuck

[EVEL Bug]

Sorry about that.  The url should be
http://dreamingagx.blogspot.com/

[ForestCreature]

My "everyday" digital isn't SLR but the Panasonic FZ35 Lumix view finder looks at the electronic image for QSLR (quasi SLR).  Much handier.  Will take RAW format photos for those who want to manipulate at the pixel level.

-- Chuck

I have the same camera as Chuck. I was looking to replace my film SLR and came across the FZ35. It wasn't an easy decision to go this route but... It does quite a bit for a non SLR without all the bulk and performs in low light very nicely. Has a very good zoom range. Plenty of settings to play with. Plus it didn't cost me bookoo bucks.

[ForestDavey]

Wish I could help with the Canons but alas... devoted high end Nikon user!

FD  Shadow  Silver....     HI YO SILVER, AWAYYYYYY