If you don’t care to know more about my new camera, you should just skip this post.
A few of you peeps have inquired about my new camera…
It is the new Canon Rebel XSI EOS 450D… (newer version of the XTI).
I’ve been waiting on it to come out for more than six months. I have long been a fan of Canon, my non-digital SLR is a Canon, and I’ve had 3 Canon (pocket size) Elph Powershot cameras and been very happy with all. I knew I wanted a digital that I could use my existing lenses with, and I was somewhat comfortable with the settings and features. However, that being said, the digital is much better than my old SLR, and now I think my old lenses suck and want new ones, ahhh.
Of course I consulted my photographer friend Marla* (aka “mc”) and she suggested the lens that would be great for everyday use and for photographing interiors. She also has loaned me her Macro lens (great for close-ups, but does 90% of the time require a tripod, unless you have a very steady hand).
If you don’t have someone to consult, I’d suggest maybe going to a camera store and discussing your specific needs/desires with a real person. B&H has a “Live Help” chat option… not sure what kind of advice or what kind of person is behind the chat (ie: whether it’s help with placing an order online, or whether it’s a pro with photography knowledge)… which might be a helpful tool?
I bought the camera body from B&H. (You can also order it with a lens, but I already had the one they were offering with the camera body.)
“Being able to take a great photo really boils down to the lens, not the camera.” (mc)
“Also note: a great camera & lens do not make a great photographer, either you get it, or you don’t.” (mc)
“Use your lens cap.” (mc)
“Isn’t that lens so much better than the cheap one that came with your other camera?” (mc)
“Do not use those filters, you’re putting cheap glass in front of expensive glass.” (mc)
“This Hamburger Helper is the best I’ve ever had!!” (mc)
“YES!” (me)
(please note: the lens I bought is far from the best available)
B&H was out of the lens I wanted. So I ordered mine from Amazon. It is the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm F/2.8 Di II Aspherical (IF) Lens with Hood. Super Wide Angle… which is great for many things, including interiors.
I am an amateur. I have had 2 courses in photography. One back in high school… it was a summer course at a local college (a not-for-credit course) and I also took one course in college. I have always loved photography… but it is a hobby for me. So, I really can’t give solid advice. I can only tell you that in the short week that I’ve had this camera I have fallen in love. If you buy this camera (or one like it) and have never had a course in photography (or a crash course from a photographer friend) then I’d suggest you plan to take a course after you buy it.
Someone asked about Photoshop… I just installed Photoshop on my computer about 6 months ago. I know a few tricks, but not many. Most of my previously posted images were raw (unedited), some that I posted yesterday were cropped, the curves were adjusted, the light was softened… that’s all I really know how to do.
Marla this morning, at WaterColor, photographing children. She needs an assistant.
*Disclaimer: Marla is a professional photographer, this is not an open invitation to ask her for photography advice or to borrow her equipment**. She & I trade services… I give her design advice, she gives me photography advice. It’s a nice sweet deal. And yes, she is also on the receiving end of Hamburger Helper prepared fresh for her and her family, so she is forever indebted to me.
** Marla has taught photography in the past. If she decides to teach a course (which I have encouraged her to do) I’ll send out an email or post about it here***.
*** If she is still speaking to me after posting so much info about her here.
I got a Nikon D40X for my b-day this year and I LOVE it! I soo want another lens too, and my adoring hubby has told me to go ahead and get it…As soon as I organize the 1500+ pictures I have taken with the camera. GASP- I may never get my new lens!!!
Wow – that IS marla! Looks like she got some new kneepads.
Thanks for the info Erika. I desperately need a better lens. Maybe Santa will be good to me this year.
Great info Erika! I like both the Rebel and the Nikon D60. So, we’ll see if I ever get either of them =)…Can’t wait to see your pictures as you learn…
That picture is stinkin’ hilarious! Please tell me Marla only has one or two cameras! That man needs a rolling suitcase… too funny! I love your camera and all this info… I hope to learn a lot from you! Now, I know exactly what kind of camera to get without doing any research… thanks!
You are so cute. I am also an online photographer friend of marla. I found your blog through her site. I am from Prattville Alabama. Aren’t you an Alabama girl as well. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your post.
Thanks E!!! Just what I was looking for. =)
Great photos and wonderful information!
The more you blog about it the more I know I have to invest in a new camera! Maybe for an anniversary gift next month…maybe!
I’m really enjoying your photography posts!!! I have a similar camera that is a sony version that I love but have never bought any extra lenses. I feel inspired to buy that now and maybe even convince Price we need a new camera for his business. If Marla would do a class she would fill it up!!!!(Please Marla….)
I’m a bit late, but thanks for the fabulous info. I received an XTI for my “push present” and I love it. I’ve been in debate ab a better lens, so this is great info. I have a degree in Graphic Design, but I’m taking a photog class this fall! Keep us updated on your camera adventures!
Hey Erika,
I recently started reading your blog and love the photography. I think I found your site from my cousin’s, Anna (Lewis) Barron. I’m from Dothan, was a KD at AU (pledge class 2000) and have lots of AU ChiO friends (just so you know I’m legit!). ANYWAY, I’m getting a Canon for Christmas (compliments of my mom) and wondered your opinion on the XSI. My dad had a (film) Canon and has awesome lenses and the guy at Photorama in Dothan said I could use with the digital. I’m a beginner and the only negative reviews I can find say that it can be a little complicated to use. What do you think? Should I get the XS instead? I need help! All my friends use Nikons, so they’ve got nothin’ for me. Love reading your blog and seeing your beautiful interior design!
I realize this is an old post. Did Marla ever get an assistant? At least I hope she got her a good carrying case for all that equipment
I have been surfing your blog tonight and have come to the conclusion that you are an unabashed genius! Thanks for sharing all the cool stuff!
Thanks for sharing all this information Erika! I’m a designer and new mom too, so I want (need) a better camera pronto! I wanted to get one that I can use to capture pictures of my little peanut as well as use for my projects, so your post totally addresses many of my questions! Online reviews have my head spinning so I’m heading to a store and hopefully making my purchase!
not sure how I “stumbled” upon this but glad I did. Your pics are beautiful and I am wondering if you and your sis are still using this same camera or if you have a newer model, or what Marla would recommend as its equivalent in 2011 for the same type of shooting. Got to make a wise purchase, you know… (rebel? d60? t3i?)
any thoughts you have would be great.
also, your designs are truly stunning.
laura clark
(auburn alum:)
It appears u actually know quite a lot about this particular subject matter and this shows with this unique blog, given the name “camera info | Urban
Grace Interiors the blog”. Thx -Danielle