Looking for a backup body - D60 a good choice?

[Croasdail]

My 10d is getting to the point that I would like to have a backup for it and I don't plan on upgrading until next summer. This would be something that mostly rides around in the bag in case the 10d dies, or perhaps wears my sigma 70-200 while to 10d sports the big lens. Is there anything I need to know about or be aware of with the d60. I like the idea that it shares most everything with the 10d.

Thanks!

[grego]

Having used both(and using the 10D currently), the AF time is slower and if I recall there arent' as many focus points. If you can get the body for a decent price, it's worth it.

[12345Michael54321]

I'll not speak ill of the D60, but I would point out that a Digital Rebel (300D) might well prove a superior back-up body.

The Digital Rebel is currently available at a rather low price, brand new. It can use EF-S mount lenses, which your current 10D can't, so that might prove convenient. And especially with the hacked firmware, it would offer most of the features and functions of your 10D.

I mean, if you have a line on a mint D60, for an incredibly low price, go for it. But otherwise, give the Digital Rebel some serious consideration.

[bauerman]

I agree - hacked 300D has to be considered...........

[12345Michael54321]

As an aside, I can't get over the price point to which the 300D has dropped. I mean, when it was first introduced, everybody (rightly) raved about what a significant event it was, being able to market such a camera for under $1000.

Now, like 18 months later, they're available new for $599, and can be picked up used for little more than the cost of a good digital p&s.

Yeah, yeah, I get how computer technology steadily drops in price. And I realize that the 300D isn't exactly a 1Ds MkII. But still, it's a perfectly adequate digital SLR in most respects, and at its current price it's not much more expensive than some upper mid-range 35mm SLRs.

The Canon 300D - the Model T of the digital photography world.

[triangle]

I needed a back up today and did not have one. My intentions were to buy a 20D and use my DRebel. I have a friend that has the D60 and it is his only DSLR. He suggested that I buy a used one instead of the $$$ on the 20D. He is a pro and shoots alot of film still, but has been very happy with his D60. All I can tell you is get a backup of some kind. I missed the girl running at the track today that I was asked to shoot, because of no back-up. And she won first place.:oops: Not a good way to run a business. I am glad it was not a wedding contract. Just my two cents.

[Halliday]

If you need a backup to your 10D why not get another 10D? I know most all Canons work the same but it will cut down any new camera learning time.

[Gerdav43]

A used 10 d would seem more appropriate to me. As a previous owner of the D60 it was a great camera, however, the technology is now over 3yrs old. The camera is slower and there are only three focus points. I sold mine recently. I offered it here for sale and was offered $550 US. I took a chance on ebay and sold for.......you guessed it.............$550. But I did get the shipping fees so that paid off. The unit I had was mint and only had 6000 shots on it.
I am already 1/6 of the way there on my 350xt. What a camera. Ultimately, I am saying, don't go backwards. You have the perfect backup in your bag. You know where it has been and how it will perform. Stay with the 10d or better.

[Croasdail]

Thanks everyone. I have been really happy with my 10d so far, and I bought this one used from ebay. The d60s are fractionally cheaper used, all things considered, I will probably go with another 10d. I like the suggesteion of the 300d, but I am not doing IF-S lenses as I still have a couple of film bodies I like to shoot with as well - haven't completely kicked the old habit. If I could get a black one at a good price, I think I could be tempted. Thanks again!

[Jon]

Just because the camera will accept EF-S lenses doesn't mean you have to use them. A DR, DRXT, or 20D will still accept all your EF lenses perfectly. Still, I'd say that two identical bodies will be preferable to a mix of models. Just make sure that you put different coloured straps (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=62858) on them, in case you decide you want them to be adjusted differently, or to keep CF cards for each camera separate.

[Huckaback Photo]

Croasdail
If you need a back up its always best to have the same body, get yourself another 10D.
the D60 is a great camera ( indeed I shall not part with mine) I had started to look for a second
D 60 body and some fool at Canon went and introduced the 1D mk 2 at £3500, so what a problem i had. no contest really, bought the mk2 . and still saving for a second matching body???

The 300d is also a good camera but the battery grip would not be compatible with your 10D
also I've seen 300D's after a lot of use and not much silver left in places ( i realise a black version available)
If you do get a second body always carry it with a different lens on (not in the bag with body cap fitted).. Tele zoom on 1..wide zoom on 2.
if card gets full or battery runs out you can just swap quickly without searching though the camera bag. also easy to quickly respond to any type of shot.
A second body prevents constantly changing lenses and therefore cuts down on the amount of dust trying to find its way to the sensor, and we all know about cleaning those.

Martin (Huckaback Photo)

[Croasdail]

Martin - thanks for the advice. I got my 10d used on ebay luckily from a local gentleman so it was a very low risk transaction. I think I will try to get lightening to strike twice and do the same. I like the idea of not having to remove the lenses. I just had to have the 10d professionally cleaned - its light sensor got clogged and was overexposing everything. Thanks again.

[Croasdail]

Jon - thanks for the hints. The Digital only lenses are driving me nuts - but it is probably a loosing battle on my part. I want to leave all my options open. My remaining film body is ever so much more predictable then my digital though I am sure over time I will learn the nuances of the digital and over time trust it as much.