Shopping for my first DSLR

[mwdoher]

I'm looking for a camera that shoots 1080p video, and I'm happy with Canon products (both for affordability and they're what I'm familiar with). I really didn't want to break $1000 on the camera/lens combo, but it looks like it's inevitable if I want to avoid the 55mm break between lenses. I have both the T2i and T3i listed as the body, but I'm open to other suggestions. Frankly, though, I don't NEED the T3i; there are so few differences that I won't know the difference. When I do, it's time to upgrade anyhow.


1 - Price range ~$1000 (less is better, obv.)
2 - The typical kit lens is 18-55mm. I'd like to have a bit more focal range.
3 - 1080p Video
4 - Longevity & Upgradability


Am I being a baby about the 55mm break? If I am, then Option #2 is easily the best deal I've found. Honestly, though, I'm leaning toward #1… Let me know if you have a chance to check them out!


Option/Kit #1
Canon EOS Rebel T2i Digital SLR Camera w/ EF-S 4462B005 B&H


Option/Kit #2
Costco - Canon EOS Rebel T2i Camera 3.7 Frames Per Second HD Video 1920x1080


Option #3 (not sure if costco or B&H is best) total $849.99 (plus tax @ Costco, no tax @ B&H)
Canon T3i DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS II Lens, Instructional DVD, & 4GB SD Card
or
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital Camera Kit 5169B003 B&H Photo Video

 

[cooksnj]

i believe the 3ti is the better cam. it also has a swivel screen which would come in real handy for that video you're thinking about. good luck.

 

[Rockkkkin]

I second that opinion. T3i will be better for video and for low shots because of its tilt screen. I have one and it was infact the tilt screen which made me choose it over the T2i.

Both these bodies give very similar picture and video quality.

 

[dakkon76]

Cameras don't have upgardability... that's why you invest in good glass So, start with a good camera that will give you what you want and plan to keep it for a while. Then spend the rest of your money buying lenses that suit your needs best - and keep in mind that they'll probably work on any camera you buy in the next 10-15 years. I haven't shot any video beyond a 1 minute clip with my iPhone of my girls being silly... so I can't really comment on video - but from what I've read, holding your DSLR steady enough to get something good out of it sounds challenging.

 

[mwdoher]

Fair enough, everyone! I have 2 response comments then... 1 - The video is more of a convenience. I have a camcorder for handheld movie creation (as well as an iPhone 4). For movies, it would all be tripod-based, so the tilt screen is mere convenience, not necessity. I guess my version of "upgradability" was directly related to the lenses. If I buy a T2i or T3i, will the lenses fit a Mark IV that gets released in 5-7 years?

Anywhere else to find the following kit for less, by the way? Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital Camera W/EF-S 18-135mm 5169B005 B&HMost importantly, do any of you suggest something other than the 18-35mm kit lens for my first lens on this thing? I want it to be as versatile as possible. I doubt I'd be able to buy new "glass" until next summer.

Thanks for the feedback!

Matt