Got a 40D now, looking for opinions on 2nd body. Wildlife/landscape. 50D, T2i, etc..

[DANATTHEROCK]

I hate to post this, but really need some fresh perspective. I got my first DSLR about two years ago, a Canon 40D. Since have got the 10-22, 24-105, 100 f/2.8 macro, and 100-400 with a Canon 1.4x TC. My interest are wildlife and landscape. On some trips, namely in Alaska, I am switching back and forth between my 24-105 and 100-400 very often. Trying to get a shot of this animal, then that mountain, etc.. Thinking a second body is the way to go. For one, the instant "lens change" if you will, then also I like the idea of a back up body in case of failure of some sorts. What I am basically trying to figure out is what body to buy. I am not a techie type and don't know much about the image quality/sensors in many of these cameras. Budget is a concern, but I don't want an XSI. Looking mainly at the 50D or T2i. My idea (for now) is to use my 40D with the 1.4x TC and 100-400 and the new camera with my landscape lens. So what I need to know is how the T2i will perform (image quality wise) against the 40D I currently own or the 50D that I am entertaining the purchase of. Thanks for any thoughts or suggestions. Heading to Alaska three times this summer and I am thinking a two camera system will be of great use. Just not sure what body to pick up as my second.

-Dan

[keitaro]

if your shooting landscape, i would really try to save up for the 5d2 or a used 5dc. Stick to your 40D for any shots where you want crop i.e. wildlife. Trade the 10-22 in for a 17-40, and your set.

Yes the 5d2 is more expensive than the cameras you listed (50D or T2i), but it's a much better camera that you would be happy with. Also going from a 40D to a T2i is a down grade in bodies. The 40D is a more superior camera compared to the T2i despite the T2i being a new generation camera. Magnesium body > plastic body

[5x5 photography]

I use the 7D with the 10-22 often and they make a great combo.
I know you did not mention the 7D but it is a fantastic body.

[KevinA]

7D is one fantastic piece of kit, and would be my choice if you don't want to have to upgrade your glass.

5D will give you you the best IQ, but you won't have the lens interchangeability between the two cameras.

[DANATTHEROCK]

Thanks for the insights so far. I do greatly appreciate it. Been researching all night and found a 5D (original model circa 2005) that is in very good shape for $1300. Anyone familiar with this older 5D want to chime in? Would this be better for landscapes, then keep my 40D on wildlife. I like the idea of full frame with my 24-105 and would likely add the 17-40. Honestly, never thought I could afford this route so I am unsure how good the 5D is, but the used 5D puts the camera within reach. However, I can get a new 50D for $999 on B&H. Any suggestions? Thanks guys/gals.


-Dan

[gonzogolf]

The IQ on the original 5D is much better than the 40D, I have both. It would be a superior landscape lens. The 17-40 is a great ultra wide on the full frame body. Its an older body so you should be aware that the lcd screen is kind of lame (colors are not accurate and the resolution is lower) and you lose a lot of reach if you decide you need two longer lenses mounted at the same time for wildlife work. I think that 5D you are looking at is a bit overpriced. You should be able to find one for $1200 or less if you look around.

[hpulley]

$1300 seems quite high for the 5D. I'm seeing them for $1000 or thereabouts lately. Full frame would be great for your landscapes but will be more expensive from the perspective of needing some new lenses. If you got another 1.6x crop you could use the 10-22 as your landscape lens.

I love having 2-3 bodies for the reason you mention, no swapping of lenses. I like to have telephoto on one, moderate zoom on the other and the super ultra wide Tokina on the other one so I can take any shot I need immediately without missing shots while fumbling with lenses.

[DANATTHEROCK]

The used 5D I saw online was at Adorama and was sold before I got home from work this morning. It was in E+ condition (excellent + with minor signs of wear under close inspection) for $1299 and had a 90 day warranty/return policy. I called Adorama to see if they had others and was told they can't tell how many shutter actuations are on the 5D. Is that true? They said they could only provide this info on Nikons. I have never dealt with Adorama and was curious about them in general. I may keep an eye out there for 5D's coming in the near future. But hoping to find a 5D somewhere else soon. Just curious if they were giving me the run around. Most my shopping has been with B&H to date. So now I am hunting online for a used 5D. Any suggestions on reputable online dealers to buy from. Thanks for any info on Arorama or any other ideas where to pick up a used 5D.

[gonzogolf]

Adorama is a good vendor. I think you would be happy with them, but look in the sell forum here non POTN and craigslist in your area. They show up around here with some regularity. I think the only way to get the shutter count is from the canon service centers.

[DANATTHEROCK]

Thanks man. I do appreciate the input. I will keep an eye out with Adorama.

Alternatively, anyone heard of KEH or UsedCameras.com ?

They have some 5d's but I have never heard of them and was scared to drop $1400 with an unknown name.


Thanks for any thoughts.


Dan

[gonzogolf]

Originally Posted by DANATTHEROCK

Thanks man. I do appreciate the input. I will keep an eye out with Adorama.

Alternatively, anyone heard of KEH or UsedCameras.com ?

They have some 5d's but I have never heard of them and was scared to drop $1400 with an unknown name.


Thanks for any thoughts.


Dan

KEH is a respected reseller. They have been dealing in used cameras for decades. Never heard of usedcameras.com $1400 still seems over the top though. I paid $1200 for a hardly used one around thanksgiving last year and have seen them cheaper since. Keep in mind that buying refursbished (whatever that really means) or used, even from a respected reseller isnt really any guarantee against failure. These things are mechanical objects, and sometimes fail. Its part of the wager you make when you buy one used instead of handing over $2500 for a new one. Find a nice clean copy, dont worry too much about shutter count, buy it and make great images.

[DANATTHEROCK]

Good to hear. Thanks for your time and thoughts. Most the ones I have seen have been around $1400 so perhaps the supply and demand is kicking in. Maybe I am not the only broke guy looking for a used 5D. ha ha...


-Dan