10D and, uhhhh ... 10D?

[johneo]

Up to this point my photography has been a hobby/fun and somewhat of a passion. I make a 'small' amount of money doing a few art festivals each year but no where near enough to support this addiction. I have done 3 weddings over the last two years (for free) and the bride and groom have been very happy with my photos.

I am seriously thinking of doing more weddings and art fests as well as some portrait work and other projects to make some money.

Here's the problem ... I have a bunch of money invested now and don't really want to invest more without being sure it'll pay me back. So far everything has been shot with my one 10D. Although I keep coming close to getting a 5D (and 10D as backup) I keep balking. Now I'm thinking of getting a 2nd 10D so 1) I have a familiar back up if needed and 2) I have different lenses using each so no more fumbling during a wedding shoot to change lenses.

THEN, if this pans out I'll be shooting with that 5D!

I know you can't compare the 10D with the 5D but the 10D is still an excellent camera and has done me fine so far.

Please show me the flaws in my plan. Thanks!

[tsaraleksi]

Later model cameras are far more responsive when it comes to things like image review or accessing the menus.

[rcg]

I don't shoot weddings but my understanding is that the $$$ is made from prints and if the 10D is giving you the results clients are happy with then why change. The 5d is neat but I see a lot of wedding photogs using 20/30d's... you could buy two 20d's for the price of a 5d.

[Broncobear]

I know pro's that are still using the 20D and even the Drebel...

[BigRed450]

Pro's used 10D's when they first came out and used them until the 20D came out with no problems. Stick to the 10D idea until the buisness makes enough money to buy a newer more expensive models..

[johneo]

Ya know, I'm starting to like my idea!

I was just drooling over the 5D, again, and I ran some numbers ... A 10D & 24-70f/2.8 L vs a 5D & 24-70 f/2.8 L will save me $2K. ($1600/$3600) I can drool over the 5D a little longer while I count that money and I'll have an EXCELLENT lens when I get it!

It'll make me work for the 5D too ... nothing should come easy, right? LOL!

[BigBlueDodge]

Question, why not pick up a slightly used 20D instead of a 10D. From my understanding, the difference between the 20D and 10D is somewhat significant, in terms of high ISO performance, startup time, etc. The used market for 20's is very good for buyers.

[liza]

Question, why not pick up a slightly used 20D instead of a 10D. From my understanding, the difference between the 20D and 10D is somewhat significant, in terms of high ISO performance, startup time, etc. The used market for 20's is very good for buyers.

This is precisely what I plan to do. I love my 10D, but really feel that the ISO performance of the 20D is better for weddings and dimly lit receptions.

[picturecrazy]

+1 for 20D.
10D to 20D is significant upgrade.
20D to 30D is NOT.

Best value per buck with the 20D!

[just connor]

yeah, the 20D has much better noise control which is always good at weddings.

[BigRed450]

Honestly, when I used strickly the 10D I found that the 20D was not a significant upgrade. Yes I have used both and compared. you really have to be a pixel peeper to tell the difference and high ISO noise is not really an issue on the 10D either I have many usable ISO3200 images to prove that. The 1DmkII was an upgrade. 10D to 30D is a worthwhile upgrade. Down side of 10D was never IQ but rather slow start up and write speed, buffer.

[cdifoto]

I use a 30D and 10D side by side and almost always reach for the 10D first. I use the 30D for sports since the 10D struggles a bit but both are capable cameras when you put a lens on that isn't known for hunting. Usually when it gets so dark I'm using flash anyway and it has IR assist....making the better AF and higher ISO rather moot.

[nburwell]

It looks like 10D's are going for around $400-350, while 20D's are going anywhere from $800-650. I mean if you're looking to upgrade to the a 5D down the road, I would say stick with saving a little money and get another 10D. Then when you have the cash to get a 5D, sell one of your 10D's, and use the other as a back-up to your 5D. The interface is similiar in comparison. If you're willing to spend a little extra cash, the 20D is another excellent option for you to look at. Especially at higher ISO speeds.

[Annabel Doskey]

I own a 10D. I bought a second one used. Both have served me well. For what I use a camera for, the second 10D will serve me well until FS sensors become the norm.

[John_B]

johneo,
If you ever get a 5D it might ruin your opinion of the 10D. I used the 10D for 3 years and was very happy and then I got a 5D. Once I tried the 5D I hardly ever use the 10D any more. The quality in colors and sharpness not to mention much more high ISO use is just way above the 10D to my eyes. Even cheap lenses shine better on the 5D to my eyes :) For weddings you may find the FF much more usable for wide angle group shots. If you really enjoy/love photography I suggest you get the 5D (if you can) it will be well worth it (it was for me).
Sorry if I interrupted your original plan :)
Just my opinion ;)

[johneo]

johneo,
If you ever get a 5D it might ruin your opinion of the 10D. I used the 10D for 3 years and was very happy and then I got a 5D. Once I tried the 5D I hardly ever use the 10D any more. The quality in colors and sharpness not to mention much more high ISO use is just way above the 10D to my eyes. Even cheap lenses shine better on the 5D to my eyes :) For weddings you may find the FF much more usable for wide angle group shots. If you really enjoy/love photography I suggest you get the 5D (if you can) it will be well worth it (it was for me).
Sorry if I interrupted your original plan :)
Just my opinion ;)

John B, Believe me, I want the 5D but in honesty, it's a little impracticle for me to get at this time as I don't make enough to afford it. As I stated, photography is a hobby for now with plans to improve and expand it into a part time income this year. My camera bag is already very heavy & expensive for what I've done with it so far. There has to be a limit and there's not an unending cash supply here. You also aren't the first one to let me know the 5D will make me drop my 10D once I have it.

So, last night I ordered a refurbished 10D. I tried a few auctions at E-Bay but that gets very frustrating. I also get a warranty with mine, in the box, complete. Even though I have a 10D, kind of excited about getting this one too.

I took out a stack of various photos I've shot over the last few years with the 10D. This camera is no slouch and while the camera is a little outdated, the results aren't. Next I looked at the wedding photos I've done and they came out very well. Even called my wifes niece and asked if she was happy, which I knew she was, and she was very happy. She also has a couple friends getting married and will recommend me.

I figure a few weddings and I'll have a 5D and my hobby will hopefully become self supporting. Until then ... I'll have to make do! It'll get me off my duff as well, to get it done!

[johneo]

Thanks, everyone, for your replies!

Update: I ordered a second 10D last night. It's a Canon refurbished with warranty. Kind of like a kid in the candy store, excited about getting it even though I have it's twin already. We'll be having a family reunion this weekend!!!

Last night I decided that results speak for themselves and while I don't claim to know it all, I'm happy with what I've got from my 10D over the last 3 years. Yes, I know the 5D will be better and it's still my goal but I am trying to be practicle ... at least until get the 10D and it tells me I need a new "L" lens!!!!

Thanks again!

[picturecrazy]

Where did you order a refurbished 10D with warranty?
I didn't think you could still buy any more new.

[johneo]

Where did you order a refurbished 10D with warranty?
I didn't think you could still buy any more new.

Adorama.com and it has free shipping!

[CyberDyneSystems]

10D is an awesome Camera. It's only "issue" IMHO as compared to most of the newer cameras is some of the timings are a slow.

[Ben Strasser]

I bought my first 10D in May of 2003, three months after it came out, to start my transition from film to digital. I bought my second in September of the same year and shoot a lot of weddings. I love the camera and like you am looking toward the 5D. I have no issues with the 10D and it has served me well. Coming from MF film, I find digital to be just as good for the work I do. One of my images was printed at poster size of 96 inches wide and it looks great (the image was interpolated in PhotoShop). About a year ago I took on contract work for the US Air Force and was provided with Nikon digitals (D1X, D2X and D2Xs), not to knock Nikon but I find the Canon 10D fits right in with the 12MP Nikon D2X series. I seem to get better results and lower noise in low light situations with the Canon. I do use L-Series lenses and that may account for the better image quaity (I haven't found what Nikon lenses equate to the L-Series Canon lenses). The 10D is a fine camera and when the shutter dies, I will more than likely make the switch to the 5D (I have about 35,000 to 40,000 clicks on the 10Ds and they are still going strong).

[fusionphoto]

Honestly, when I used strickly the 10D I found that the 20D was not a significant upgrade. Yes I have used both and compared. you really have to be a pixel peeper to tell the difference and high ISO noise is not really an issue on the 10D either I have many usable ISO3200 images to prove that. The 1DmkII was an upgrade. 10D to 30D is a worthwhile upgrade. Down side of 10D was never IQ but rather slow start up and write speed, buffer.

Totally agree... ;)

[Joe Cyr]

I find it hard to reccommend to anyone going out and buying another 10D. Mine still functions fine, in fact I did a wedding with it last weekend while waiting for may other camera to arrive. However, I have many dead pixels in the 10d. They show up as bright red dots. These happen in normal exposures, outside and in bright sunlight. I have also had several problems with the flash not being recognized on the hot shoe. Granted I got the 10d when it first came out and it is heavily used, so it may be on its last legs. My company had two of them and they both developed AF issues. How can you possibly know that the one you are buying is not about to crap out? You can't. It's a gamble. It could pay off for you. I would go the route of the 20d if I I were in your situation. It's only a little bit more, then it becomes your primary and your 10d is the backup. And if you haven't thought about it, get the grip. It makes a world of difference when shooting 8 hours at a wedding. Good luck! Any specific questions feel free to ask.

[johneo]

WOW! This is an old post of mine! :)

Just to update ...

I used both my 10D's for a couple months and even ordered a 24-70 L to go with them ... 24-70 L on one - 100-400 L on the other. The shutter on my old 10D went and while it was off being fixed I decided the heck with it and ordered a 5D. What an upgrade!!!!!! Only regret was waiting to get it for so long.

Got my old 10D back in great working condition from Canon and figured what do I need with a 5D & two 10D's? Had the old one converted to Infrared.

I still think the 10D is no slouch though there's no way to compare it to the 5D. What I've found is my 10D serves me for more casual shooting and I use the 5D for more serious stuff. Shot a wedding a few months back and though I had the 10D with me, never took a single shot with it ... 5D is the camera of choice, hands down!

Also went on a cruise and decided to take my 10D ... heaven forbid something ever happened to my 5D on the ocean or a Caribbean beach. 10D served me well on the trip with LOTS of great photos.

And that's where I am now ... though my wish list has been upgraded as well! Top of the list is a 70-200 f/2.8 L IS with a 40D in 2nd place (probably when the 50D comes out)

Joe Cyr ... I've been lucky because I've never had any other problems with either 10D ... please don't make this my curse ... with the exception of the shutter last year. My thinking then was a "less" expensive option with a familier 2nd/backup camera. Worked for a while :)
To be honest, i never saw a need to upgrade to a 20D or a 30D. The differences weren't that big a deal to me. To a 40D? Yeah, that is a huge upgrade IMHO but now I have the 5D with a 10D and that is working out fine.