Tuesday, November 30, 2010

It Starts

Background:

For my 30th birthday, I originally thought I wanted a nice dinner in the city and to see Les Miserables. About a month ago, as tickets became available for the show, I decided that that was a complete waste of money. Sure, dinner and an amazing performance would have been a lovely experience, but it would be a fleeting one, at best. It was at this point that I decided that I would invest in something that would bring me hours of joy, pleasure, frustration and fun, a DSLR Camera.

Step 1: Decide on the camera
Step 2: Find a wickedly good deal
Step 3: Arrival of the camera
Step 4: Chronicle my experience

Step 1: Decide on the camera
I decided to get the Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18 MP CMOS APS-C Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens. How did I arrive at this decision? Facebook, reviews and a love for my previous Cannon experience.

Facebook Status Post:
I am going to get a DSLR... Recommendations welcome :
Responses included:

1. I have a Nikon D3000 and I love it!

2. I like this website:
http://www.imaging-resource.com/WB/WB.HTM
check out the consumer and enthusiast SLR categories on the right!

3. I vote Canon, I love mine.

4. ME: Canon EOS T2i (Rebel T2i, Canon 550D) is at the top of my list right now....

5. That is What u should get no question

6. We just got my sister the Canon EOS Rebel T1 - great camera, so I'm sure the T2i is even better

7. Nikon or Canon for sure. I love my T2i, I originally got it for DSLR filming, it's a great choice for video or photography

8. I have a nikon d5000 & really like it. I had a canon before I went digital, though.

9. Nikon or Canon- Keep in mind how you plan on using it- If outdoors a lot opt for one that is more weather resistant. If doing a lot of indoor kids events- look for higher ISO capability, I have the Nikon D200 and the D70 and have spent the value of a new D200 in repairs on the D70 because it is not able to withstand bumps. My advice on lens is to get the best you can afford so shop carefully. The difference between the low end Nikon 70-300 and their top end 70-200 is amazing- so by a slightly lesser camera and go for the better lens- the camera bodies change but a great lens you will keep for 40yrs... Just my opinion...

10. I have the canon (not sure which model) and love it. I agree with Mark about the lenses. Mine does well outside for action shots at the kids games.

11. Nikon d3000 here too. My cuz is a professional photographer (actually has a degree in it) & that's what she recommended for us.

12. The Canon you mentioned is a great camera.It will serve you well... But also look at a few of the Nikons But as I told another friend yesterday- The camera doesn't see the picture.. The sighted man is blind if he shuts his eyes to the beauty around him...

13. We have a Nikon d3100 and love it although there is definitely a learning curve to it.


I was amazed at the responses, especially the ones from friends who never post on my wall. Then I visited the suggested review site and my choice of the Rebel 2Ti was solidified.

Step 2: Find a wickedly good deal
Thanks to Cyber Monday and Amazon I paid a $792.08 for a brand new Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18 MP CMOS APS-C Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens. Free shipping. That seems like a good deal to me. There were some cheaper options, but I trust Amazon!

Step 3 and 4 Coming as soon as the camera arrives.