Don't have the camera in hand yet but found something I already like about Canon.

[benhasajeep]

You can download manuals without having a serial number! With Nikon USA you need your serial number for downloads. The camera is home, and I hope to be there Thursday to open the box. But wanted to read up some until then. A quick search got me a quick pdf copy straight from Canon. :D

[bolantej]

that's great! the only problem is, while your battery is charging, you won't have anything to do! trust anyone at home to charge the battery for you (and not play with it? :) ) so when you get home you can get going?

[benhasajeep]

There will be no time for playing with the camera right off the bat. I have been away for a couple months. There is a huge list for things to get done!! And not just fun things either. ;)

[Jackal]

Welcome to Canon. =) What camera did you get?

P.S. Why would Nikon make you do that? Makes no sense. It's just a damn manual!!!

[MTalley]

On the day that I knew I was going to the store to buy my DRebel, I downloaded the manual and read it front to back during lunch break at work. Once I got home, I was ready to go once the battery was charged. I like being able to do that with anything that I'm buying, or anticipate buying.

[TammieO]

How silly of Noink. I downloaded and read the manual before I even bought the camera.

[benhasajeep]

Welcome to Canon. =) What camera did you get?

P.S. Why would Nikon make you do that? Makes no sense. It's just a damn manual!!!

As far as I know its just Nikon USA that makes you have a serial #. I have downloaded pdf manuals for my other cameras by going to Nikons UK site. I think it has alot to do with non US bodies sold in the USA. I also think it is a dumb idea.

I ordered a D20 as my first Canon product. I am still keeping my Nikon F-100, and 8700 as they are really good cameras.