30D 'too much' camera for amateur?

[ccshaw]

Hello, I am very much an amateur photographer (with a strong desire to become much better!) and we are purchasing our first SLR. We've looked at at/researched/considered the Nikon D80, the Rebel xti, and the 30D. I have decided that I want to stick with Canon. My husband thinks we should get the xti, but I just can't get past the small body and the toy-like feel of this camera. I've looked at it on 3 different occasions and had the same feeling of 'no!' everytime. I really like the feel of the 30D. My husband is concerned that the 30D may be 'too much' camera for an amateur photographer like mysef. What do you think? Is the 30D user friendly enough for someone just getting into photography or will it overwhelm me? I know it is considered to be a semi-pro camera. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Papaw]

Welcome, you came to the right place. The 30D can be used by anyone and has plenty of room to grow into. You can start shooting in Auto (the green square and the camera does all the calculations and work - you just push the shutter button. After getting the feel and reading and studying you will want to start using the P (program) so as to use some of the available features while still allowing the camera to choose the exposure. Then you will start using the Manual exposure settings.
I think the 30D would be a great choice.

[-MasterChief-]

get the 30D and learn to grow into it. before you know it, and if you hang around these forums long enough, you would want your own 1DS Mark II! welcome to POTN! :D

[tomhide]

I never owned a camera before my 30D but as I had strong passion for photography, I decided to get something that was going allow me to improve should I be willing and something that will last long time without wishing that I had gone something better.
Its being 7 months since my purchase and I am still learning all the function of the camera but slowly I am learning to utilize most of the function of 30D effectively.
Its a well built camera and I don't think its too much of a equipment for anyone who has desire to learn :) I do not regret going 30D :)

[Jim G]

I definitely don't think it's too much camera for an amateur. It's very user-friendly and if you're not comfortable with Av or M modes then there's always P mode until you get the hang of it :)

[crn3371]

The 30D can be just as simple as the XTi. That being said, it really won't take a better picture than the XTi. Lens quality really comes in to play with a dslr. If money is an issue, I'd rather have the XT/XTi with some good glass, as opposed to the 30D with the kit lens.

[gjl711]

You might want to point out to hubbie that feature for feature, the XTi and the 30D are almost identical. Other than speed improvements, build quality, size, and maybe a feature or two, both cameras are capable of the same thing. As the other user said, quality is in the photographer and the glass.

[lostdoggy]

You need to rephrase the question. An Amateur is one who enjoys doing a particular thing in this instance photography and the proficience of doing so can exceed that of a professional. You can say you're a beginner and would like to learn how to photograph better. There are a lot of amateur here that take wonderful work that exceed the works of some so call professionals. I'm not one of those of cause, but I do enjoy taking pictures.

BTOP, no 30D is definitely not to much camera for an amateur. A camera is not like buying a pair of shoe that is two size too big and you expect to grow into them. No, a camera is a tool and the more you use it the more you'll learn to use it better. The people here in this forum are very helpful and you'll learn a lot from them. I know because I have definitely learn a lot here.

[SuzyView]

You have got to start somewhere. I wouldn't spend the money on a 1DsMkII as a beginner, even if I could afford it. The 30D really isn't that much more than a new computer and it will allow you to have a wonderful hobby that you can grow with. There's no shame in getting a good book or taking a beginner's course and go from there. If you have the money, if you have the desire, you can improve. I know I have improved a great deal. I still ask silly questions and assume things I shouldn't and people straighten me out. Ask away, and people will help here.

[Billginthekeys]

as someone who went strait from an ultra compact point and shoot to a 20D, no the 30D is not too much of a camera for you, or anyone. its many various modes allow for amatures to get used to using a Dslr at whatever pace they would like. Go for it! you wont regret it.

[tiktaalik]

As others have mentioned, no, the 30D isn't too much.

One important thing here, though, that you should emphasize to your husband is how important ergonomics are. If you don't like the way the camera fits in your hands then you won't use it as much! The two cameras aren't that different in capabilities but they do feel different. You should listen to what your hands tell you.

[Glenn NK]

My personal take (based on the questions we get here):

The 30D is not too much for the amateur photographer, but I think it's more than some amateurs photographers need. On second thought, it's too much for a small percentage; this also based on some questions/comments I've read.

It really comes down to how much effort and devotion one puts into learning photography and the camera. By the OP's comments ("strong desire"), it seems that she would be able to handle a 30D, and in short time be able to utilize it's capabilities.

I become a bit exasperated at the ones that haven't or won't read the manual.

[JMHPhotography]

I never really understood the whole... "too much camera" thing. Any camera with AUTO modes can be used by an amatuer without problems.

[joegolf68]

As everyone has pointed out, the 30D and XTi are basically the same level of difficulty/ease. I too debated a long time over the XTi versus the 30D, not due to price as much as features. I went with the 30D and am very happy I did so. With the rebates, if you shop well you can get the 30D at not too much more than the XTi. Make damn sure you buy from a reputable dealer, not just the cheapest you find on the net, as there are tons of scammers out there that look like really good camera stores. BHphoto and Adorama, as well as Amazon have done folks well here. Good luck and enjoy. Remember, the camera is going to be one of your CHEAPEST purchases, the lenses are where you will/can spend the big bucks!

[aLFaDaRK]

I actually prefer the size, weight, and feel of the XTi over the 30D, which is one of the reasons I got it, besides the more MP, lower price, and sensor cleaning. But no, the 30D isn't too much camera for an amateur. :)

[jestergx4]

I originally looked at the Xt (as well as the new Xti) and there is just something about the 30D that feels right! I am an amateur as well and you cannot go wrong with the 30D. It is definitely not too much for the amateur photographer. It can be a little intimidating at first, but the more you practice with it, the more you will love it!! You will not regret it!

[inthedeck]

A few months ago, there was someone with the same question. I mentioned to him that the XTi is good in it's own right, but, moving to a 30D would be better, as it would allow him to grow into it, and further into photography as his 'skills' became better. As of right now, he has added quite the lot to his collection, and seems to be enjoying his camera just as much as he did his point & shoot.

I say go with the camera that YOU feel is going to be the better choice. If you will be the one using it, primarily, I say get what you feel is the right one. Otherwise, you may regret it later on...

Oh, and yes, glass (i.e. lenses) do make a really big difference. However, the kit lens that comes with the 30D/XTi is a great lens to start with, to understand what you like to take pictures of, and where you will be taking them.

Good luck, and a warm welcome.

[cloose]

A few months ago, there was someone with the same question. I mentioned to him that the XTi is good in it's own right, but, moving to a 30D would be better, as it would allow him to grow into it, and further into photography as his 'skills' became better.

What would enable someone to grow into photography further with a 30D. Correct me if I am wrong, but this implies to be that the 30D can do something that an XTi cannot......which would be what exactly?

[T.D.]

I'm absolutely an amateur with a strong desire and a passion for learning. I have had the 30D for 4 months and am loving it. Go for it!!

[inthedeck]

What would enable someone to grow into photography further with a 30D. Correct me if I am wrong, but this implies to be that the 30D can do something that an XTi cannot......which would be what exactly?

1) Make use of spot metering, which the XTI may/may not have.
2) Make use of the quick control dial (some like it, some like buttons), to me, the dial is much better.
3) Make use of the better ISO noise. The XTi may be better/not so, with DIGIC III, and all...but time will tell how it performs at different ISO's.
4) Body build, metal vs. plastic
5) Larger size body, vs. smaller body.

And no, I didn't mean to imply that the 30D 'beats' the XTi, but there are differences. For me, and my big hands, the 30D feels more comfortable. That's one concern that the OP has...and there's some other differences. So, hopefully that didn't come as an attack, as I didn't mean it as such. Usually, it's the tool behind the camera that takes the pictures...the body and lens just help. :lol:

[canonphotog]

If the 30D feels better in your hands you will be more prone to apply yourself to your new hobby instead of wishing you had bought the 30D.

There really is no such thing as too much camera for someone that truly is interested. There will always be features that you either don't use at all or seldom use on any camera body you buy.

The key is to buy a camera body that never lets you ask the question; Why can't my camera do ????????? (at least if that feature is available at all)

Ken

[cloose]

1) Make use of spot metering, which the XTI may/may not have.
2) Make use of the quick control dial (some like it, some like buttons), to me, the dial is much better.
3) Make use of the better ISO noise. The XTi may be better/not so, with DIGIC III, and all...but time will tell how it performs at different ISO's.
4) Body build, metal vs. plastic
5) Larger size body, vs. smaller body.

And no, I didn't mean to imply that the 30D 'beats' the XTi, but there are differences. For me, and my big hands, the 30D feels more comfortable. That's one concern that the OP has...and there's some other differences. So, hopefully that didn't come as an attack, as I didn't mean it as such. Usually, it's the tool behind the camera that takes the pictures...the body and lens just help. :lol:


Spot metering I'll definately give you, as to me, this is the only "photographic feature" that I can think of that sets them apart. Quick control dial, body size, build are preferences that do not affect any pictures coming out of the camera.

ISO noise? Not sure there is a difference. (At least not one that I have seen) XTi is still Digic II.

Sorry if I came across as defensive on any implication that a 30D is "better". It does seem that there are 30D users who definately feel threatened by the XTi , as the line between "entry level" and "semi-pro" is blurred with these cameras. Especially when things that set the 30D and XT apart were implimented in the XTi. Now, when the 40D comes out there will no doubt be advancements that re-seperate it from "entry level". In my very humble opinion, any purchase today comes down to comfort with the camera. I myself find the XTi quite comfortable (please no girly hand jokes :lol: ) and have gotten quite quick with the single command wheel (1 button push + wheel for secondary changes) but I can see how others will still apreciate the larger size and dedicated second wheel.

[door]

5 fps if you're into action shots

[ccshaw]

Thank you so much for all of your valuable input and the warm welcome. I will purchase my 30D with much confidence that I am making a great choice! I'm sure I'll be back soon with a million questions...

And I'm sure the XTI is a great camera...I just don't like the feel of it in my hands....didn't mean to start any 30D vs. XTI debates :D

Thanks!!

[liza]

Another vote for the 30D. I have a 10D and a 20D with plans to pick up another body at this level in the spring. It's a good, solid camera rated for 100,000 actuations. The command dial, to me, is easier to master than all the buttons on the XTi and would probably be less confusing for the beginner. I have the use of an XT at work and usually opt to utilize my own cameras instead.

[blonde]

i am an amateur and a pretty lousy one at that and i use a 1 series body. the way i look at it, i can learn on this body and get to the highest level possible without needing to upgrade. also, it really doesn't matter if you are a pro or a beginner, you need to get the body that is most comfortable to you. i had the XT and it was a great camera but it didn't feel comfortable to me due to the size. to some, the 1 series will feel terrible due to the size and weight so the XT/ 30D is the better choice.

[sebmour]

I had Xt and changed to 30D. I vote for 30D, bigger body, heavier more stable with heavier lens, 2 wheel for adjustments, more precise focus, manual white balance, more confortable then the smaller body for me hand (less hand cramps from days of shooting!) and more....

[ChrisBlaze]

I think its took much camera for anyone starting out. Its not cheaply priced like the XTi and you'll only take half the loss if you but it but rarely use it.

[Z3rocool]

I used to have a PAS (5500 Fujifilm) which has some of the extra settings of an DSLR (manual mode etc) This made me learn how to use these and now I have a 30D and love it. Once I read through the manual and learnt the different buttons were for and got used to the position I could concentrate on getting used to the advanced settings and playing around. To be honest if I had not had the PAS with the extra settings I think I would have learnt the 30D stuff fairly quick and then there is a lot more to learn so you can grow into it. The larger screen is great and the 5 fps is amazing. I only have the kit lens at the moment and having great fun. Will soon get an L for next years airshow curcuit :) GO WITH THE 30D if money is not too much of a problem...

[Permagrin]

I think its took much camera for anyone starting out. Its not cheaply priced like the XTi and you'll only take half the loss if you but it but rarely use it.

But it will re-sell better than the xt or the xti. The XT has dropped $350 in one year...the 30D is more ergonomic and often used by semi-pro's and pro's as a back-up. So it will hold it's value better and she wouldn't really take a much of a loss if she re-sold it. Though I shoot with the 5D, I've had both the xt (never tried the xti) and the 30D...my vote goes for the 30D. It's a great camera and the spot metering and control dial are invaluable. And the others are right when they say it can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. And shoots both ways just beautifully.

[grego]

I think its took much camera for anyone starting out. Its not cheaply priced like the XTi and you'll only take half the loss if you but it but rarely use it.

I still got around 600 for my 10D a few months ago. The higher series cameras tend to hold more value. The 30D has that higher value and will hold more value as time passes by. It's built well and will last longer with a need for less because its more versatile in the features it offers.

[chr15b]

Had the same situation when i bought,

went into Jessops (uk) and they were very patient, let me have a play with all of the cameraas, when i held the 350d and 400d they both felt a bit small, the body lenght was the problem, as i have big hands the bottom of my and and little finger were both off the camera, this meant i didnt feel as ballenced with it as the 30d

when i held the 30d it just felt right, and seeing as pretty much all the time you use it you hold it i think thats a big concideration.

bit like buying a car, you just know when you've found the right one, it doesnt have to have a neon sign above it saying "right one here!"

saying that though, i could of compensated for the body length with a battery grip

very happy with my choice of 30d, had it two months and taken about 3000 pictures, i'm still no good at it, but i'm getting better :D

[TeeJay]

get the 30D and learn to grow into it. before you know it, and if you hang around these forums long enough, you would want your own 1DS Mark II! welcome to POTN! :D

Oh.... that is sooo true! :D

Definately go for the 30D - Good Luck!

TJ

[TeeJay]

....saying that though, i could of compensated for the body length with a battery grip...

... and if you haven't already bought one, my bet is you soon will :D

[chr15b]

... and if you haven't already bought one, my bet is you soon will :D
i find the 30d long enough and the battery life is very surprising, i've charged it once in two months and even though last time i was out it was showing low it's still going

i could get a day (1gb) with my panasonic p&s

[Jon, The Elder]

Think of it as buying a new Tricycle, then six months later you are ready and able to use a Bicycle.
If you are really interested in exploring photography, then there is no such thing as 'too much camera'.
Sounds like your husband doesn't share you degree of interest and therefore doesn't understand the need for advanced capabilities.
The 30D is an excellent unit and should last a long time past your current indecision.

[I Simonius]

Hello, I am very much an amateur photographer (with a strong desire to become much better!) and we are purchasing our first SLR. We've looked at at/researched/considered the Nikon D80, the Rebel xti, and the 30D. I have decided that I want to stick with Canon. My husband thinks we should get the xti, but I just can't get past the small body and the toy-like feel of this camera. I've looked at it on 3 different occasions and had the same feeling of 'no!' everytime. I really like the feel of the 30D. My husband is concerned that the 30D may be 'too much' camera for an amateur photographer like mysef. What do you think? Is the 30D user friendly enough for someone just getting into photography or will it overwhelm me? I know it is considered to be a semi-pro camera. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

My friedn asked me exactly the same question a while back and I said there was only one answer, that is to go and hold one, play with it, go with what feels right

If you get the camera that feels too small you will regret it and no the 30D is definitely not too much for an amateur, in fact the beauty of it is that you can really grow into it and personally I think taht the 'feel' of a camera is very imprttant

After all this is a creative thing with creative processes, if it doesn't feel right it just won't be as creative for you

[darktiger]

I say get the 30D. A long time ago, I was deciding btw a 20D or a XT and chose the XT. I should have gotten the 20D. But now I have the 30D and I am a amateur and love it.

[gjl711]

My friedn asked me exactly the same question a while back and I said there was only one answer, that is to go and hold one, play with it, go with what feels right In reality this is about the only thing that makes any sense. Quality wise, feature wise, versatility wise, they are all practically the same and a shot taken with one will be indistinguishable from another. It all comes down to feel and what you like.

[John T]

My husband thinks we should get the xti. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If the 30D feels more confortable - go ahead and get it!! If you don't, you'll always have that nagging feeling that you really should have bought it.

And after all .... when did you last take any notice of what your husband said ? ;)

[canoflan]

I think the whole "too much camera" discussion is not accurate. It is only "too much" if you believe you don't want to learn what all it can do. Believe me, when you begin seeing the capabilities and learning more about how to photograph your interests and even taking a class in photography, the 30D will be well worth the initial investment. I would even suggest the 5D, but it may be being replaced in a few months with an update or other model (rumor, not truth).

[superdiver]

If you can swing it then get it by all means. There is a learning curve, but nothing you cant handle with some reading and time...enjoy your new purchase!