Just ordered Rebel XT! Thanks!

[kormaster]

Hello everyone. I finally ordered Canon Rebel XT with kit lense and Canon 100mm 2.8/f macro lense. It will be used for my own hobby as well as for my dental profession (thus the macro lense) I know i have to get the ring flash, but that's a bit later. My first SLR and my first digital SLR!! :D

It was a debate and dilema but everyone here helped me with the decision.
I shopped over at buydig.com and total price was $1370 (that was including $15 2nd day FEDEX with no tax).

I should be getting this by this Thursday and I am so impressed with their service. WHen i ordered on Friday night, i forgot to upgrade the shipping. I tried to call and email... but they are closed on weekends. But surprisingly, they called me on SUnday afternoon and wanted to confirm my shipping address and upgrade the shipping for me. I confirmed everything with them and they sent it out on Monday morning (next day). I have been tracking it every several hours now (i know... im crazy) and it left NJ and heading here to socal!!!!


Now, I need som CF card, tripod, and a nice bag.

I plan to use this camera this up coming 4th of July weekend when i fly up to SF (My 2nd home town per say). My girlfiriend and I are totally excited about this new hobby we picked up. Although we understand that we cant take professional grade pictures, we like to know few settings for a these following shots. I understand it's all trial and error.. but basic guideline will help us.

1) Sunset (esp the Golden Gate Bridge area)
2) sunny day ( differend perspective shots of trees and scenic stuff)


It may be too broad of subject to give me certain settings or whatever... but any tips??? Do i need polorizing lense for water shots (sunset over GG bridge?)

Thanks you.

-David-

[kram]

David, welcome to the DSLR world. I'm sure you will love it.

Just be prepared to go through a reasonably steep learning curve - DSLRs dont product good images out of the box:) There is a fair bit of learning both 'in camera' and 'post processing' before you will love your images.

3 months down and beginning to get some good snaps!!

[Rob612]

I suggest that at the beginning you just start shooting and make confidence with the camera. It is NOT a P&S, and it need some on the field training. Actually, you can get son excellent pics since day 1, but mastering a DSLR needs some time. Have fun with the new toy, enjoy it trying all the various possibilities, even start with the auto modes. It just doesn't matter, you'll need to "feel" it at first.

Ah... remember to get yourself some CF, usually they ship none with the cam.

Congrats and have fun !!!!

[weemannie]

Congratulatons, and welcome to credit card hell!

Don't worry, you'll be taking good shots in no time. :)

Browse through the forum, there are loads of tips on using the camera and look at the sticky threads for post processing. Even shooting JPGs' can need some editing to improve the image for processing, even if its only cropping.

Have fun :D

[sorashell]

Congratulations! I just ordered one as well and have not only been tracking it like a lovelorn stalker, but dreaming about it as well....

I found great prices on 1G SanDisk Ultra cf's at NewEgg http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.asp?Submit=Go&DEPA=0&type=&description=SanDisk+Ultra&Category=0&minPrice=&maxPrice=&Go.x=8&Go.y=29

It's my first SLR as well, digital or otherwise. We can compare crappy first shots! ;)

[etaf]

i'm sure you well have lots of fun - but watch the bank balance as you start looking at spare batteries, CF cards, tripods, flash guns, then LENSES !!!!! oh yea LENSES loads of money and loads of must haves :) ;)

enjoy

[zacker]

SHOOT RAW!!! at leats theres a chance to "Fix" any problem photos... unless they are too far gone! if you have PS/CS2 you can use the raw function... or use what comes with the camera...

Im still learning my XT, I had it since MAY and it is more than a handfull coming from a P&S pro 1... thank god i learned a little about settings and functions with that one.
-zacker-