Should I Wait A Few More Weeks To Buy?

[Dewpoint]

Hello, first post and all.

I've had my eye on a digital SLR for some time now. All I have now is a poor little P&S Optio 550. :) I even took it to the Tour de France in 03 and I missed a few shots because of focusing speed, etc.

Anyway, I've narrowed it down - 30D, Rebel XT, Pentax K100D, Nikon D80. OK, so the list is not so narrow yet. The D80 and K100 are appealing because I tour a lot by motorcycle and they are small.

The camera that feels the best though is ta da the 30D. I mean doesn't that thing just feel like it's all business when you hold it? :)

So I am wondering. It's that time of year for new updates. Nikon just announced the D80 and I'm wondering what Canon will have in a few weeks. I think they might tweak the Rebel but does anyone expect them to do anything to the 30D? I know, it's hard to say.

In October we are headed to Bryce and Grand Canyon. I've never been there and I want to take the new camera. So I have some time, but I'm getting ancy...

-r

[CoolToolGuy]

Hey, welcome to the forum. I hope you will learn a lot here and have some fun along the way.

There may be a replacement for the 30D in the next month or so, but there will more likely be a replacement for the Digital Rebel XT.

However, the real reason to wait is that Canon USA typically starts a round of rebates for the Holiday selling season. They usually kick off in September or early October.

Have Fun,

[SuzyView]

I'm waiting to get my telephoto lens when the rebates start. Anything to help me convince my spouse (who lets me buy stuff) is worth waiting. I really don't "have to have it" right now so waiting is good. If you are serious about learning, go ahead and buy a good book like "Understanding Exposure" or if you are consider shooting in RAW, get the "Camera Raw" book. These books are amazingly helpful and so easy to read.

[cfcRebel]

Most people here are waiting for the Canon Double/Triple Rebates that normally comes out in 4th quarter. If you are planning to buy several Canon products, it's worth the wait. But if you are waiting for the camera model replacement, it's hard to say. 30D was released in 2006 IIRC. So i won't bet on a replacement for 30D.
Here's where you can find most rumors about Canon.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=83

[ssim]

There is always a new camera and another rebate around the corner. If you need it within a specified timeline then buy it now. I've never let the rebate program drive my purchases. Saving a hundred dollars or so on a multi thousand dollar purchase just isn't enough to make wait.

The 30D is a great camera and even if Canon does bring out a new model your 30D will still produce great shots. If you need/want it now, buy it.