Noob...need stuff...advice???

[FrostQ]

I just recently bought a Xsi...what should my first accessories be?

I need a backpack/sling bag...
a cheap flash

any recommendations?

[Headshotzx]

First advice: don't go cheap.

Get a decent photo bag from lowepro/tamrac/crumpler/thinktank etc
And get another spare battery and spare SD card(s)
Get a decent blower and cleaning kit. Giottos rocket blower would be good.

After that, it depends on what you shoot. If you shoot landscapes and nightscapes, invest in a good tripod (healthy budget- around US$200 for a manfrotto / benro).

If you shoot sports, get a 55-250 lens for US$200+ as well.
If you shoot portraiture, try a 50mm f/1.8 for less than US$100

[FrostQ]

not sure if this is the right section to post...

is the 55-250 IS any good?...are there anything comparable?
how bout just ditching the 18-55 and just go for the 18-200 IS??

what's considered a "good" tripod?? I have 20yr old tripod sitting at home...barely ever touched...

[k_wakasugi]

There are plenty of sample images of the 55-250 IS on this forum. I own one, and I think it's excellent for the price - because it is an inexpensive lens. What kind of budget are you working with?

[FrostQ]

I don't really know what's out there...so it's hard to budget accordingly...

I already know that I want to get a 50mm f1.8 lens and a decent sling/backpack...ultimately I want to spend less than 500 bucks for 'accessories/upgrades'

[k_wakasugi]

Do lenses count as accessories/upgrades? If not, and if you're serious about getting more involved with photography, I would allocate that $500 to good flash and a good tripod, as Headshotzx suggested.

Of course, it really depends on what you'll be shooting. Research Manfrotto tripods (I love my 055XPROB+488RC2 head), and look into a good flash like the 430EX. That should be just about $500.

[FrostQ]

yes...lens would be considered as an 'upgrade'

I just spent more than 800 bucks on the kit...trying to cut back until my c.c. recovers :lol:

[k_wakasugi]

As you're probably already aware of, good lenses can be pretty pricey, but if you'd really like to keep costs down, the 55-250 + 50 f/1.8 are a good place to start. Just keep in mind the loss you'll take if you decide you want to upgrade to better glass down the line. If you're going to be taking flash pictures, then I would HIGHLY suggest picking up a good flash from the start. It can dramatically improve your shots, as well as give you a ton more flexibility.

[Richgsr]

Some Costcos have the Lowepro Slingshot 200 for 60 bux. Pretty decent price on what is usually a 90 dollar bag.

[FrostQ]

thanks for the advice...I'm looking for a 55-250 IS now...hopefully will be able to find one for a decent price...


do you guys have any online stores that you can recommend to me? I'm in Canada so shipping could be a prob.

[k_wakasugi]

I know B&H (www.bhphoto.com) ships to Canada, but it's an extra $30.