Linda asks…

Nikon D300 or canon Rebel T2i / 550D?

which one to get for a beginner photograph as a birthday gift (with kit lens) ?

thanks

rob answers:

Since I only recommend what I own and therefore know, I’d say the canon . I have two of their dslr camera s, the 1000D and the 500D and both are excellent. Like the 550, my 500 does crisp, clear video as well.

canon, the only clear choice.

Thomas asks…

canon EOS Rebel XSi VS canon EOS Rebel T2i VS canon EOS Rebel T1i?

i want to get started on photography and i’m seriously considering on splurging on a dslr. but the question is, which one? should i start at the lower end model like the XSi or should i spend a lot more money and get the T2i ? Or since im a beginner, can i forego the pricier T2i becasue the extra options and functions make it more expensive and will i really need them? and since the T1i is in between the XSi and the T2i should i get that one instead? which DSLR do you get your money’s worth?

P.S. anyone know some good lenses that are better than the kit lenses but not too extravagantly priced? (at the most costing $250)? like good overall because i’m not planning on only doing one type of photography

thanks! (:

rob answers:

XSi:
-Cheaper
-Very similar pictures to other two models

T1i:
-Middle ground
-Video capability
-Video on full automatic settings only

-T2i:
-Most expensive
-30FPS @ 1080P video capable
-Video on manual settings allowed.
-Better metering system

So, do you need manual settings in video mode, 30FPS 1080P video, or a better metering system? If not, look at the T1i or XSi. From there, do you need video at all? If not, get the XSi. If you do need video, choose the T2i if you need 30FPS @ 1080P video or video on manual settings, or the T1i if you don’t care about those things.

Personally, since I don’t use video, my vote is for the XSi. Image-wise, it takes very close if not the same pictures as the other two camera s. As a beginner, you’re better off going with a cheap body and high quality lenses than the other way around.

As with lenses, try the EF-S 18-135mm IS lens, or the 28-135mm IS USM lens. Better reach than the 18-55mm lens, slightly better optical quality, and the 28-135mm has an ultrasonic AF motor, which is both faster and quieter than the standard AF motor.

If you’re planning low-light, you should also look at fast lenses. The 50mm f/1.8 is a cheap yet fast lens, and with its large max aperture, is very well suited for portraits (narrow DoF) and low-light situations.

Hope that helps!

Susan asks…

Canon Rebel T2i or T3?

I’m looking to buy a DSLR for the very first time shortly after christmas (Boxing Day) but I barely have enough to get the T2i . I am looking for good image quality with the kit lens and also good video quality. Please help, I need to know if I should work harder at saving more so I can get the T2i . So which one should I get? The T2i and T3

If you have either camera, please give a detailed explanation as to why I should or shouldn’t get it.

Thanks

rob answers:

I’d say go with T2i, i’ll list the reasons:
-Much higher resolution screen.
-Much larger screen.
-Higher resolution movies (shoots higher resolution Full HD (1080p) video).
-Much higher true resolution.
-Supports 24p.
-Has an external mic jack (to record high quality audio with an external microphone).
-Better image quality.
-More dynamic range.
-Has a self cleaning sensor.
-Significantly smaller.
-Slightly lower noise at high ISO.
-Slightly better color depth.
-Shoots faster.
-Significantly thinner.
-Slightly larger sensor.

I dont think you need any more reasons to consider the T2i instead of the T3! ;) I’d also suggest you read this review to help you in making a decision:

http://www.amazon.com/review/ROZ8Z9JAOHPCP/ref=cm_cr_pr_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0035FZJI0&nodeID=&linkCode=&sourceid=md.ds&tag=famavca-20

This is the best deal i could find for it:

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-T2i-3-0-Inch-Body-Only/dp/B0035FZJI0/ref=cm_rdp_product&sourceid=md.ds&tag=famavca-20

Read the specs and other details about the T3 to compare the two:

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Rebel-Digital-18-55mm-Movie/dp/B004J3Y9U6/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1321490293&sr=1-1&sourceid=md.ds&tag=famavca-20

John asks…

I am looking into filters for my Canon t2i, UV & polarising in particular. Good brands, plastic vs glass, etc?

I am diving into the fray of amateur (and I mean, very amateur…) DSLR photography, I am seeking advice on filters for my Canon Rebel t2i. Doing my research is lending towards the quality of glass versus plastic for filters, need some first hand advice. I am reading a lot into UV filters and Polarising filters to allow certain lights, and lending to color saturation. (i.e. bluer skies, vivid clouds, better overall landscapes.) I am still using the standard kit lens of 18-55 mm. Is the 58 mm my best bet on filters for my starter lens? Any and all help from photographers a little further down the trail than me would be welcome! Just seeking first hand account. We all know that manufacturers will portray their wares as the best under the sun, hence my need for input! Thanks for any and all responses!

rob answers:

Glass glass glass! Always! I’m no expert on landscape photography but I would get a polarising filter, and you should have a UV filter on every lens you have all the time to protect the lens glass – it’s maybe $50 to protect hundreds of dollars worth of investment! You should look into Neutral Density filters too, they’re very useful.

Sandra asks…

Canon 500D(rebel T1i) vs Canon 550D(rebel T2i)?

I am looking to buy my first DSLR. i have shortlisted to the 550D and the slightly older version, 500D, both with kit lens, 18-55mm. The price difference is about ÂŁ80. This means that I can probably get a 50mm f/1.8 straight away if I decide to go for 500D. If I go with the 550D, then I’ll have to save up some money first.

I did some research and discovered that the 550D has the same sensor as the 7D, which is supposed to be really good. How does the sensor of 500D compare with them? And is it worth spending ÂŁ80 more and get the 550d?

550D has a superior video mode, but video is not important for me. but a nice video mode won’t hurt.

Also, how do these cameras perform in low light conditions? I know it has all to do with the lens, maximum aperture and shutter speed, but which one performs better?

My main concern is the sensor quality and size. Please help me decide with some pros and cons.

rob answers:

Hi,

550D has less noise, better video, better sensor, better LCD screen. 500D is one of the noisiest models out there, don’t get it!

Sure the 50mm f/1.8 is great but trust me, 550D is one amazing camera . In low light 550D will be better due to less noise, and yes, it has a lot with settings-

Sensor quality = 550D
Size = 99% the same, but 550D has overall better design.

There are no cons. There are simply things you can’t do, like not put them into your pocket, have to learn a bit about settings etc. They become pros after time.

Here’s a DSLR Buying Guide – http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/

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