Digital Photography

Quinn S. Clayton asked:

What’s so great about the new Canon Eos 500D, anyway? Doesn’t Canon already have enough offerings out there that they don’t need to throw any more in our direction? Really, isn’t’ the Eos 500D just gratuitous?

Actually, no. It has several features that are usually only available on professional-level models, but it costs slightly less than $900. What are the features that make it provide such a big bang for the buck?

1. DIGIC 4 professional-level processor. This is the powerhouse of the new Eos 500D. The DIGIC 4 means that the camera keeps low noise all the way up to 800 ISO, so you can get clear shots of everything but Jake Peavy’s pitches or a cheetah running downhill.

The processor also lets users take great VGA-quality video. It records a 1920×1080-size image, 720p at 30 frames per second. This is the standard for Internet playback and allows anyone to easily show off their expertise on YouTube or their own website.

2. Compatibility. Not only is the 500D compatible with all of the Eos Speedlites–it’s also compatible with every Canon lens currently on the market. So if you already have a super-telephoto, wide-angle, or any large-aperture lens–even the ones made for the Canon’s professional models–you’ll find using them with your new 500D a snap (literally!)

3. Excellent user interface. Canon has changed the Eos 500D up a little from the rest of the Eos line. Perhaps most important is its new vertical control dial which replaces the standard horizontal one.

This new vertical dial should lower thumb-flicking accidents that can either throw the shot out of focus, resulting either in a bad shot or potentially causing the photographer to loose a shot while he or she re-adjusts.

4. Low learning curve. The 500D is just one generation down form Canon’s XSi. It weighs the same–1.2 pounds–and has the same basic body. This means that users of the XSi can adjust to it without problem. It also means that new Canon owners should have an easy time aiming and steadying the new 500D–Canon’s most advanced amateur model to date!

Bargain Digital Compact Cameras

Tags: 500d, Canon, Eos

Quinn S. Clayton asked:

For people looking for a great entry-level camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i should be the place to start looking. Many people have caught the photography bug, wanting to improve the quality of the precious memories they capture for their family and friends. Finding a camera that is robust enough to deliver quality images has not been the challenge. Finding that hearty machine at an affordable price and easy enough for the novice to use has been.

The Canon EOS Rebel T1i has a multitude of functions in digital photography, and is easy on the wallet. The EOS Rebel T1i can deliver 170 high resolution digital JPEG images in true High Definition video at 3.4 frames per second continuous shooting. In laymen’s terms, the EOS Rebel T1i is powerful for the professional photog, but simple enough for the beginner.

One of the most exciting features of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i is the 3 inch Clear View LCD monitor. This feature alone makes other cameras in the class seem out of place. The LCD monitor is useful for viewing still images as well as full motion video. Further, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i can capture full motion video in High Definition at 20 frames per second or in 4:3 ratio (standard video) at 30 frames per second.

The Canon Eos Rebel T1i is extremely affordable as well. Other similar devices that have less functionality may cost upwards of $1200, while the EOS Rebel T1i does not break the $1000 barrier. The affordability of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i makes it a smart choice when choosing a hand-held image device.

Seeking a top caliber piece of equipment for a new hobby is often risky. Choosing entry-level hardware often makes more sense. In this case, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i is the entry level camera that boasts a powerful platform and reasonable price. That makes it the smart choice and the affordable one as well.

Bag a Bargain

Tags: Canon, Eos, Slr