where and what to buy...

[sudaplatov]

I decided to buy new EOS D30.
I looked through the web and prices were
between 1500$ and 2500$.
Why such a big gap?
I never used such a advanced camera.
Which accessories do I need for a basic usage?
Microdrive?
Which lenses to start?

[mrbobco]

hi...

avoid the cheaper sellers...they are most likely selling gray market (i.e. foreign models with no accessories) or pulling a bait and switch manuever (getting you interested then telling you the camera isn't what you thought; i.e. used, refurbished, gray market, etc)

check out:

www.resellerratings.com to find out just WHO is on the level and who isn't...

above all...avoid broadway photo and similar dealers who seem to have the lowest price...

canoga cameras and b&h photo are the best legitmate dealers out there...you can expect to pay between $2200-2500 for the complete us version of the D-30 (doesn't include a lens but does include the charger, battery, ac adapter, usb cable, etc...)

i'm sure you'll get all assortment of input here...but what kind of lens you need depends on what you want to spend...i started off with a 28-135 IS but if you can afford it, the canon "L" lenses are better...a good tripod (i.e. gitzo) would be very necessary too...and a flash...(any of the canon ex series speedlites will work) i'm personally not the biggest fan of microdrive cf cards (i have a 512 mb cf card without moving parts inside : )

i'm sure that there are some wonderful sigma lenses available too the won't hurt your pocketbook so much...but i always say...buy the best you can afford...you'll have to look for some others out here on the forum for input about the sigma lenses...

and lastly...photoshop. although not entirely necessary...you should get the FULL version if you can afford it (usually around $600...the camera is shipped with a version of photoshop LE)

bob

[Cecil Walker]

I agree with Bob. The bargain basement prices usually reflect either gray market cameras or "gutted" kits where you don't get everything you're suppose to.

I went with Canoga Cameras due to feedback I saw here as well as a positive feedback from a friend of mine. They were competitive, fast shipping, and didn't have any "shady" practices...

Cecil

[sudaplatov]

Many thanx!