s3is vs. dRebel XT

[mplavnik]

Hi, I am a really indecisive photographer wanna be. I am taking photography and photoshop classes and need to decide on a camera. I need one for family/vacation photography, but I am very picky about picture quality. My current camera is Kodak DX6490, and I am not happy with it. I read all sorts of reviews online, but would appreciate any advice from real users. Is picture quality on S3 IS close to a dRebel XT or would I be unhappy? Thanks in advance~

[Billginthekeys]

if you are planning on seriously getting into photography then you should get the RebelXT, because of the beinifits of the expandability with lenses, flashes, accessories than the s3 doesnt have. the s3 is a nice point and shoot, but Dslrs are something else.

[Jon]

There are two major advantages to the 350D/DRXT over the S3 IS. First is the larger sensor. A larger sensor has larger photoreceptor sites, so it isn't as noisy at high ISO speeds. Directly linked to that, the 350D has higher ISO speeds (to 1600 vs. 800). You'll also get more control over depth of field since the typical DSLR lens has a much wider range of apertures than the S3 IS lens does. Now granted, the S3 IS will cost you substantially less than the 350D even before you start buying lenses for the 350D, and buying lenses for DSLRs is a never-ending process - take a look at the EF Lens forum and see how fast the first page fills up! So if you want to use your money for frivolities like food, clothing and shelter instead of essentials like that new lens Canon just announced, then get the S3 IS and stop frequenting places like this :{)#

[mplavnik]

Ha-ha, thank you for your advice. I don't mind spending money on something I really enjoy, but I don't have the time to research lenses, etc. But will I be happy with the quality of pictures produced by s3 is? Is there a gallery other than dpreview.com that you could recommend? Thanks again.

[Andy_T]

Hi Mplavnik,

welcome to the forum :D

That question gets asked a lot ... so there are also some threads with interesting discussions available that show the pros and cons of both cameras.

Of course, as the S3 IS is rather new, there are not any threads to that camera, but this should be quite similar (with the IS as added advantage of the S3IS):
G6 or DRebel? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=49026)

Best regards,
Andy

[DaveL]

one other thought... you might want to check out the
Canon S2. why? because the S3 is just released and probably
a little too close in price to the XT. I got the S1 after the
S2 had been released and saved myself a couple hundred,
and was also able to sell it quickly when I jumped to a DSLR...

not saying that you need to be cheap about it, just realize
that if you are serious about photography, you likely will
progress quickly through the point and shoot.

[Hank2122]

Ha-ha, thank you for your advice. I don't mind spending money on something I really enjoy, but I don't have the time to research lenses, etc. But will I be happy with the quality of pictures produced by s3 is? Is there a gallery other than dpreview.com that you could recommend? Thanks again.

go to pbase.com and search for canon s3. some results will appear.

Unfortunately, if you are going to get an DSLR, you must do some research on lenses!! (I find that to actually be part of the fun).

[Terrywoodenpic]

Ha-ha, thank you for your advice. I don't mind spending money on something I really enjoy, but I don't have the time to research lenses, etc. But will I be happy with the quality of pictures produced by s3 is? Is there a gallery other than dpreview.com that you could recommend? Thanks again.

Get the xt with the kit lens.
It is the much better option better camera better sensor better lens=better pictures.
If you want to grow later it gives you options.
You would not be happy with a s3 for long.

galleries are not much help.. Better photographers can take good pictures with about any thing. They know enough to get the best out of poor kit.. you will not be in that bracket, so don't make things hard for yurself get the best you can afford. in this case the xt.

[mplavnik]

thank you everyone for your advice.

[danster]

I would urge you to go with the Rebel XT with a twin lens kit.

[twalker294]

IMHO the number one advantage of a DSLR over a point and shoot is the ability to use available light when doing indoor photography. A high ISO and fast prime combination will allow you to do this and really explore more of what photography is all about -- capturing light. A point and shoot just doesn't give you this ability and without it you are missing out on a lot of creative possibilities.

[PPLL]

Hi, I am also choosing between S3 IS and 350D. The main purpose for me to buy a new camera is for taking photos of my new born child. Some friends said to me that the 350D is better in capturing light so it is better for taking indoor photos without having to use a flash (should not use flashes on new borns). Besides I was told that the S3IS would not be fast enough (i.e. shutter lag, I suppose) and would be hard to capture the kids when they are growing up and start moving around. is that correct? I do not know much about cameras and photo shooting and therefore, I perfer not to spend too much money on cameras Hence, if S3IS would be enough for my case, I would go for the cheaper one. Hope someone can give me some suggestions.

[Wsman2]

You can kinda' compare at Canon's Powershot Line (http://www.powershot.com). The dSLR's are at the bottom of the page. The site will allow you to do a side by side by side comparison with the P&S's only. To see the features on a specific camera (including sample pics), click on the camera, then choose a tab on the right side.

[hegemon]

Hi, I am also choosing between S3 IS and 350D. The main purpose for me to buy a new camera is for taking photos of my new born child. Some friends said to me that the 350D is better in capturing light so it is better for taking indoor photos without having to use a flash (should not use flashes on new borns). Besides I was told that the S3IS would not be fast enough (i.e. shutter lag, I suppose) and would be hard to capture the kids when they are growing up and start moving around. is that correct? I do not know much about cameras and photo shooting and therefore, I perfer not to spend too much money on cameras Hence, if S3IS would be enough for my case, I would go for the cheaper one. Hope someone can give me some suggestions.
Sounds like you would be fine with an S2IS or even one of the Fuji F-series of cameras... I don't see a need for you to blow $1k on a dSLR

[RossW]

Shutter lag with S2 or S3 should be a non-issue... they're much better than older small cameras. True, low-light capability of DSLR is better, but the S2/S3 will still get OK photos of most family scenes when set to the correct shooting mode. (And the flash won't harm the baby; it's over too quick to be a problem unless she/he is looking directly into the light at a close distance.)

[PPLL]

Thanks a lot for all your help!!!!

[Heist]

My S3 is arriving tomorrow... why did I go for this over a DSLR?

well, a few reasons:
-I was gonna upgrade to a DSLR eventually... but I couldnt justify the expense of camera and lenses when I have other debt to pay off first and I'd rather put big money into my race car rather than into photography at this point

-I want a nice camera and a badass one. The S3 is a really nice camera and I'm still learning the in's and out of photography. Buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike.

-Refering to the above reason, its time for me to move out of my A80 and into something a little more complex and sophisticated.

[johnthebaptist]

I apologize for being lengthy but for what it's worth I have gone through the same decision making process, however, I am in a little different situation than you guys. I have owned a Powershot S1IS for about 2 1/2 years now and have shot 7,522 photos with it (as of today :lol: ) and it has been a really great camera. As you can see in my gear list I have purchased every available option for it; all Canon brand - no knock-offs. I have explored the camera thoroughly and tried this and tried that and now really know it's limits. When I heard of the S3IS my curiosity was peaked because of its resolution, black color (that rocks!), stereo sound, etc. etc. Also I have been studying the posts here for quite some time and have gotten very interested in DSLR's because I really have a passion for photography. After really studying and weighing my options here is my conclusion: for me why pay $500 or so for a camera that has basically the same abilities as the one I currently have when I can spend a few hundred more dollars and really upgrade to something that will let my creativity soar? I will tell you - spending $500 or $800 is a lot of money for me. I am having to save up and hopefully will have my Canon Rebel XT by Christmas (I hear they have been running holiday specials the last couple of years - maybe that will continue). The bottom line is this - either way you go you will have a great tool. I am sold on Canon equipment and again have had great service from my S1IS. I am keeping it as my second camera when I don't want to carry my DSLR. I hope this helps. Thanks.

[lakiluno]

If you are serious about photography, you'll probably end up getting the DSLR anyway

I'd recommend a Rebel XT (or, if your really smart, wait until the much-rumoured Rebel XTi is out and buy a rebel XT for $100 or more less than it is now - the XTi looks like it'll be announced at the end of september - prices will fall from its announcement)

Personally, I'd skip both kit lenses and buy it with a Sigma kit that I invented - the 17-70 2.8-4.5 and the 70-300 4-5.6 would make a good, affordable (well...ish) camera kit that would cover more than the S3 at both ends, and would give you high quality images (both lenses are pretty good for the price).

Leo

[mitziewing]

Can someone show me some photos taken of indoor sports with the S3?? Such as dance recitals??? I am trying to decide if it will serve my needs, or will I have to go to the XT.

[Bosman]

I am at work so can't post photos, but I will tell you I had a Canon G6 and just couldn't get the pics of things like dance recitals and sports indoors I wanted. Upgraded to a Rebel XT and added a 50mm f1.8 prime lens and WOW!!!

Indoor pics of those activities no longer a problem!

That lens is only $80!!!

Does it leave you wanting even more? Of course is you hang around on here long enough.:)

But you can buy the lens you need as you need them, no point and shoot is going to give you the speed, high ISO, and flexibility of a dslr!

[Permagrin]

I currently own the S3-IS for when I don't want to carry around my big slr. (Used to own the rebel xt too). The s3 is the fastest p&s out there...it takes nice photos (non of the image issues that were commented on the s2-is ...see: cnet.com on both models). My advice is this: getting into the dslr area requires research every time you buy something. You have to want to (or you'll make lots of mistakes and spend money you'd wished you hadn't) whether it be lenses, filters, flashes etc (because you want the best for your money). A non-dslr requires a one time search for the best possible cam. The only quibble I have with the s3-is is the 5mpx. It shoots nice photos that sharpen easily in PS but they top out at an 8x10 size. Otherwise I couldn't be happier with my little cam back-up. When you get into the dslr's you have lenses, filters, flashes, software dealing with dslr spec. things like RAW images, tripods, monopods, LARGE bags...I just wanted you to see that if you move into that area, it's a big $ commitment :) . Now having said this, IT WAS THE BEST STEP I EVER MADE! (probably the most expensive too, other than having children). With the S3-IS you can do everything (except shoot in RAW) that the dslrs can do, but you don't have to change lenses to do it. The resolution is less (sensor size/mpx) but like I said, it makes a nice 8x10. It is fast on it's high speed setting, compared to the other two p&s I own(-d)...the A620 (it can shoot circles around that, though the resolution on the A620 is better, it's TOO slow for sports) and the panasonic dmc-tz1 (loved everything about that camera except the noisenoisenoisenoise)...and the S3IS is faster than that one too. It has great indoor lowlight metering too.

The rebelxt is a better camera, as long as you equip it with good lenses. But the s3is, IMHO is not that far off. And my normal cam is the 5D...lately when I was tired I took the S3IS to the zoo and my (NON camera savvy friends) said "these are beutiful, did you take them with your new camera"! While it wouldn't stand up to forum inspection, I just wanted you to know what outsiders thought :)

edit: attaching photos. Both these shots were in bad light...the meerkats were running in and out of the dark, moving fast and the birds were on constant move and they were in the shadows of the tree...I did do some postprocc. sharpening. But I wanted you to see that yes, you can photo fast things in bad light.

[Bosman]

I currently own the S3-IS for when I don't want to carry around my big slr. (Used to own the rebel xt too). The s3 is the fastest p&s out there...it takes nice photos (non of the image issues that were commented on the s2-is ...see: cnet.com on both models). My advice is this: getting into the dslr area requires research every time you buy something. You have to want to (or you'll make lots of mistakes and spend money you'd wished you hadn't) whether it be lenses, filters, flashes etc (because you want the best for your money). A non-dslr requires a one time search for the best possible cam. The only quibble I have with the s3-is is the 5mpx. It shoots nice photos that sharpen easily in PS but they top out at an 8x10 size. Otherwise I couldn't be happier with my little cam back-up. When you get into the dslr's you have lenses, filters, flashes, software dealing with dslr spec. things like RAW images, tripods, monopods, LARGE bags...I just wanted you to see that if you move into that area, it's a big $ commitment :) . Now having said this, IT WAS THE BEST STEP I EVER MADE! (probably the most expensive too, other than having children). With the S3-IS you can do everything (except shoot in RAW) that the dslrs can do, but you don't have to change lenses to do it. The resolution is less (sensor size/mpx) but like I said, it makes a nice 8x10. It is fast on it's high speed setting, compared to the other two p&s I own(-d)...the A620 (it can shoot circles around that, though the resolution on the A620 is better, it's TOO slow for sports) and the panasonic dmc-tz1 (loved everything about that camera except the noisenoisenoisenoise)...and the S3IS is faster than that one too. It has great indoor lowlight metering too.

The rebelxt is a better camera, as long as you equip it with good lenses. But the s3is, IMHO is not that far off. And my normal cam is the 5D...lately when I was tired I took the S3IS to the zoo and my (NON camera savvy friends) said "these are beutiful, did you take them with your new camera"! While it wouldn't stand up to forum inspection, I just wanted you to know what outsiders thought :)

edit: attaching photos. Both these shots were in bad light...the meerkats were running in and out of the dark, moving fast and the birds were on constant move and they were in the shadows of the tree...I did do some postprocc. sharpening. But I wanted you to see that yes, you can photo fast things in bad light.

Pulled this quote out:
"With the S3-IS you can do everything (except shoot in RAW) that the dslrs can do, but you don't have to change lenses to do it"

You got to be kidding me? Did you really type that?

[mitziewing]

Ok, here I go. I am a grandmother who is the 'family photographer" I take my camera to everything the grandchildren are in. I love to shoot little league baseball and dance recitals. I have a G2 now, and it has been a very good camera. However, I am wanting something with a little more distance and something faster.
One forum suggested the S3 IS since I don't want to change lens, and really don't want to use a 'long' or 'big' lens---but I do want alot of improvement over what I have now. What would you suggest??? Would the S3 do the job??? thanks

[Permagrin]

"With the S3-IS you can do everything (except shoot in RAW) that the dslrs can do, but you don't have to change lenses to do it"

You got to be kidding me? Did you really type that?

If you'll read it closely I didn't say you could do it "as well as the dslr". But the functions technically are all there. Not everyone needs a dslr to achieve what they want. Besides I was quite clear in the limitations of the little camera. So yes, I did write what I wrote ;)

[Bosman]

If you'll read it closely I didn't say you could do it "as well as the dslr". But the functions technically are all there. Not everyone needs a dslr to achieve what they want. Besides I was quite clear in the limitations of the little camera. So yes, I did write what I wrote ;)

I am honestly not trying to start a "war of words".

It is just that a year or so ago I purchased a G6 thinking it would be all I needed to capture the moments I wanted, dance recitals, indoor basketball, yadda, yadda. yadda. Now I'm talking younger kids, not real high speed, low light stuff. The G6 didn't get what I wanted. Sold it and got a Rebel XT and love it. Anyways, I agree that a dslr is not right for everyone, but I also don't want to "mislead" (not that you are intentionally doing that) people into thinking they are going to get the same kind of performance from an advanced P&S. I will grant you if you are shooting objects that don't require the "benefits" of a dslr, (instant on, high ISO, lens options, no shutter lag,......) then an advanced P&S can rival a dslr in IQ.
I guess due to my personal experience, I'm sold on a dslr.

[Permagrin]

I am honestly not trying to start a "war of words".

It is just that a year or so ago I purchased a G6 thinking it would be all I needed to capture the moments I wanted, dance recitals, indoor basketball, yadda, yadda. yadda. Now I'm talking younger kids, not real high speed, low light stuff. The G6 didn't get what I wanted. Sold it and got a Rebel XT and love it. Anyways, I agree that a dslr is not right for everyone, but I also don't want to "mislead" (not that you are intentionally doing that) people into thinking they are going to get the same kind of performance from an advanced P&S. I will grant you if you are shooting objects that don't require the "benefits" of a dslr, (instant on, high ISO, lens options, no shutter lag,......) then an advanced P&S can rival a dslr in IQ.
I guess due to my personal experience, I'm sold on a dslr.


Neither am I Joe, truly. I would never have a p&s as my sole use camera. But that's the need I have. I was just saying that if someone doesn't have the need for a whole kit, the S3IS is a good choice. If I was misleading in my statements, I didn't mean to be. Honestly. I really do find the little p&s to be useful in it's own right.

[mitziewing]

Excuse me, but you seem to have gotten off onto which is best--the point and shoot or the dslr. I just want to know if the S3 IS will shoot dance recital photos????? I am sure it will do a good job on baseball. Hopefully it will do much better on baseball than my G2 did, or I don't need another camera. Will I be wasting my money and time by getting the S3 to replace my G2???????

[Stump]

I just went through all this. My uncle bought a Sony 828. I was fascinated with it and got a fz30 Panosonic. I was soon over it because of noise/shutter lag issues. I sold it and got a Canon A620. I just sold it and now the owner of a Rebel XT. I won't use anything but a dslr. Instant focus, no shutter lag... low noise. You can use Raw and correct exposure mess ups. You will probably just be unhappy with p&s cameras.

[RossW]

Mitzie, here's your answer: indoor sports, such as basketball and volleyball -- yes, if you're very steady and don't try to freeze the fastest action.

Dance recitals -- no unless you use a tripod and wait until the dancers have frozen in place. Lighting just won't be enough in most situations.

Bottom line. Final answer. Unless you need the long lens -- and you say you don't -- stick with your G2.

[catsith]

i have taken lots of great photos with my s2, some have received merits from the camera club comp. (i've posted quite a few on the forum too, just recently some bird photos, and flowers, do a search on my threads started if u want to see them) I like it because it is small and light to carry, so easy for family gatherings etc. I also have the extension tube for filters etc. I had trouble with it in low light at a wedding i recently attended, until i changed the iso. I also now have a noiseware programme too. Size is also an issue, how big a camera do you want to carry? The basic dslr is still a lot bigger in size (well for me anyway).

mitziewing, it could be just what you need. The 12x zoom is very good.

[Andy_T]

Hopefully it will do much better on baseball than my G2 did, or I don't need another camera.

Reach - Yes.
AF speed - most likely not (but I haven't tried the s3is)
As far as dance recitals are concerned, IS can only help you so much if your subjects move ... and I think they do that at dancing...

Now with the 400D just presented, there might be some good deals on used 350Ds or 300Ds coming up. Agreed, more expensive than an S3IS, but - apart from better images - it gives you more flexibility.

Best regards,
Andy

[TextileWOlf]

I am in the process of trying to decide between a S3 and a XT. I will use the camera for personal uses primarily taking pictures of DC (where I live), sporting events (Fb mostly), and just general family events and scenery. Any thoughts about which way I should go. One thing I just thought about, one nice thing with p&s cameras is the lcd to show the picture you just took. I assume the XT can not do this, with no LCD. How do you guys feel about this?

[Franko515]

I have a S3 IS and for low light recitals it just wont cut it. Motion blur, OOF shots are mostly what I get. The IS doesnt help if the subject is moving :( I recently went to the Bears training camp and took some shots that came out very nice (sunny day)


Bears training camp (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=199584)

[Woogie]

My sister has about 10 different recitals every year. She does a lot of hip-hop and jazz, so it's just a litttttle bit faster than ballet. I used to take the S2 to some of her events. The outdoor events were underneath a big tent over a stage, but even so, light isn't too great. Indoors, she woudl be in a big performing center on a big stage.

Either setting, the S2 had an incredibly hard time getting the shots right. Maybe i'd get her face still, but the rest of her body would be moving. I'd have to crank of the ISOs to 400, but the images were absolutely horrible becasue of the noise. A lot of times, i'd even miss the shots because the camera would be hunting for focus.


Today, i show up to her events with my 30D and i've got absolutely no problem shooting. Incredibly fast AF and the AI Servo AF mode is very nice. The 1600 ISO is definitely usable. 3200 ISO if i need it, and it's STILL usable - indoors or out.

Spend the extra money on a DSLR and you won't regret it.

[Jon]

I am in the process of trying to decide between a S3 and a XT. I will use the camera for personal uses primarily taking pictures of DC (where I live), sporting events (Fb mostly), and just general family events and scenery. Any thoughts about which way I should go. One thing I just thought about, one nice thing with p&s cameras is the lcd to show the picture you just took. I assume the XT can not do this, with no LCD. How do you guys feel about this?Actually, it does. You can't preview shots on it, but the viewfinder works much beter anyhow. You certainly can review every bit as well on the 350D as on the S3.

[SmuckerS2]

Buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike.

that's YOUR opinion. albeit false. i went DSLR pretty much immediately.

[rhys]

I was a 35mm SLR film shooter for many years. I didn't have anything to do with auto-anything cameras, preferring to use some good old Nikon FM bodies.

Then I went digital and used several digital compacts one after the other before dSLRs eventually dropped to a price that was low enough to buy and which I could persuade my mother would make a lovely wedding present.

I have a Canon S1 IS and while it's a lovely camera and takes excellent photos, I do find that its slowness is its limiting factor. As a compact it focuses well enough but the shutter lag forbids action photos. Focussing is reasonably quick and it does do movies. The lack of easy-to-use manual focus is a real drag.

The point is - it depends on what you do which camera you buy. I like all of my cameras - my Nikon 995, my Nikon 3100, my Canon S1 IS and my XT. I use the 995 for macro, the 3100 for travel and quick shots, my S1 IS for family excursions and my XT for serious photgraphy.

[Jon]

Buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike.
that's YOUR opinion. albeit false. i went DSLR pretty much immediately.You're quoting him out of context. The full quote was -I want a nice camera and a badass one. The S3 is a really nice camera and I'm still learning the in's and out of photography. Buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike. In his case he felt that buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike.

[SmuckerS2]

You're quoting him out of context. The full quote was In his case he felt that buying a DSLR would be like giving a motorcycle to a child that's never ridden a bike.

ah, i see, very sorry, i retract my comment :)