600 saved up!!

[chiyeung]

So I finally got a job and finally have enough for my camera. I'm 19 and in college.

I am looking into people photography.
After research, I have bought two books (i dont know if these books exactly tell you what a "perfect picture" is)

understanding exposure
the digital photography book - scott kelby

I got myself a copy of photoshop cs5, a point a shoot to practice with. I am trying to learn photoshop skills. Should i just pick up a book on how to use CS5?

my buy list:
camera, lenses, tripod, reflector, softbox, speedlite

self portrait with dad w/ some editing.

My question for the community is:
Should i buy a canon eos 1000d for $ 468. It comes with the basic lenses.
Amazon.com: Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black): Camera & Photo

Or should i buy a canon eos 1000d body for 408
Amazon.com: Canon EOS Rebel XS - Digital camera - SLR - 10.1 Mpix - body only - supported memory: SD, SDHC - black: Electronics

And buy a seperate lense: canon ef 50mm 1.8?
Amazon.com: Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens: Electronics

I am mainly looking into portraits and people photography.

After my camera, im hoping to buy a tripod and a reflector

 

[chiyeung]

Bump for advice, and for forums returning

 

[enzodm]

My question for the community is:
Should i buy a canon eos 1000d for $ 468. It comes with the basic lenses.
Amazon.com: Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black): Camera & Photo

Or should i buy a canon eos 1000d body for 408
Amazon.com: Canon EOS Rebel XS - Digital camera - SLR - 10.1 Mpix - body only - supported memory: SD, SDHC - black: Electronics

And buy a seperate lense: canon ef 50mm 1.8?
Amazon.com: Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens: Electronics

I am mainly looking into portraits and people photography.

After my camera, im hoping to buy a tripod and a reflector

to start I would go with the first set. A 18-55 zoom will give you the basic to start playing and learning. A tripod is an additional good acquisition, and let the rest for when you have an idea of what you already have. No need now for extra flash, reflectors, etc until you are able to self-answer to your other thread

 

[Bram]

Yeah I agree with enzodm.

First get yourself the basic setup, the body with the kit lens. Doesn't matter if it's nikon or canon. Seems to me you've chosen that alread. Now start looking for your entry level cameras. I'm a nikon person so i'm not too familiar with canon but the rebel series are looking good to start off with. The 50mm lens (nifty fifty) is a great portrait lens. If you got friends that want photos that's a great starter. softboxes and speedlights should be researched before you really get into it. I for myself the entry level external flash about 6 months ago. Still learning it, and still haven't decided on softboxes or anythign yet. Looking but not deciding.

Ask plenty of questions and Welcome to the forum!
Happy Shooting!

 

[LuckySe7en]

I have the same camera. So far I enjoy it. it's a lot of fun. I purchased mine with the kit lens but i plan to add a 50mm just because it's so cheap.

 

[Pepperpwni]

I would get the kit lens so you can play with the range and then eventually buy the 50mm 1.8. I'm not usually a huge advocate for the kit lens at all, but having that range compared to a prime lens only is a huge difference. The wide angle will be nice while you learn.

 

[djacobox372]

Don't waste $$ on books, all the information you need is on the internet for free. Youtube is a great source of video tutorials for photoshop and photography in general.