Camera for babies/family pics...T1i???

[melissaandkris]

Im about ready to upgrade from my trusty S5. Leaning towards the T1i. I love that it has video but just wondering what you guys think about it for babies and family shots. Can't really afford anything more than this but I don't have to have the video, I can keep my S5 for that. Any ideas?

[egordon99]

I have the Xsi which is the T1i minus video and 12MP instead of 15. It does a great job of shooting babies and families (among other things)

It's my "backup" as I usually use my 40D, but the Xsi holds its own.

[Shootfilm]

Any one of the Rebels would be fine. I would at least get a flash squeezed into the budget. The IQ is going to be real close on all the rebels.

SF

[egordon99]

Don't discount the lens/lighting/exposure/focus/composition aspect of photography though. The latest Rebels are great at what they do, but they won't "create" the picture for you. They'll just capture the image that YOU create. Not commenting on your experience, but lots of folks go into buying a DSLR thinking it will automagically make their photos awesome.

If you're on a limited budget, I'd go with the Xsi and spend some money on lighting and lenses.

A properly lit photo with the S5 will look MUCH better than a poorly lit (ie the pop-up flash->YUCK!) photo with the Xsi.

[melissaandkris]

Thanks everyone. I already have a 430EX, that will work with any of the rebels right? Ive got 2 lights and umbrellas also. I plan on a soft box being my next big purchase after the camera. I plan to get the nifty fifty when I buy the camera, in addition to the kit lens.

[Kristy]

I don't know anything about the cameras you are looking at...

However, I would suggest moving on over the the DSLR line and buy something you can afford. It will allow you the opportunity to grow in your field and transititon up as time goes forward.

Keep in mind your investment is in your lenses. They will last you the lifetime of your career barring you breaking one. Camera bodies, will continue to evolve every year.... so I wouldn't get too wrapped up in the body choice, but rather the lens.

I've seem some really awesome family/child photographers shooting with an older Rebel and 50mm f/1.8, wth beautiful results.....

If you can afford the upper level Rebel camera, and maybe the 50mm f/4.1 or even a Tamron 28-75 f/2.8, I think that would be a great starting place for you.

Just my 2-cents, good luck on your decision. :)