Upgrade Rebel Xt or just lens

I have been thinking about upgrading my Rebel xt. So far it has served it's purpose, I am a slightly advanced beginner (?) I had someone tell me that I should just buy new lens for my current camera, rather than investing in a new body. The reason is I am on a tight budget and was only considering the XSi or the T1i. Their opinion was my Rebel XT can do what these cameras can do, with the right lens. Its this true? I really need advice!! I mainly shoot portraits outdoors of kids and families, with one upcoming small wedding for a friend.

What lens(es) do you use at the moment? It's quite probable that a new body won't improve your shots as much as a better/new lens would.

I am just using the lens that came with the camera when I purchased it, 15-55mm, nothing special.

EFS 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6

I think a new lens is a better option

Any suggestions on a good lens? I would prefer to stay under $400 for now, but I am willing to invest a little more in my equipment, so that people will begin to invest in my work

Yes, replace that lens!
Here are your options:
EF-S 18-55 IS
Tamron 17-50/2.8 (VC)
Sigma 17-70 (OS)

I'd suggest the first, and if that leaves you with unspent funds, consider a 430 EX flash.

Thanks. If I get one of those lens and decide in a month or so to upgrade to the xsi or the T1i (or T2i) will the lens work with the newer camera?

tdjenkins4 wrote in post #10159827
Thanks. If I get one of those lens and decide in a month or so to upgrade to the xsi or the T1i (or T2i) will the lens work with the newer camera?

All of the above referenced lenses will work with any dRebel series camera. In addition, they will also work with an xxD series camera (20D, .... 50D, and the 7D).

Upgrade your lens first.

tdjenkins4 wrote in post #10158636
I have been thinking about upgrading my Rebel xt. So far it has served it's purpose, I am a slightly advanced beginner (?) I had someone tell me that I should just buy new lens for my current camera, rather than investing in a new body. The reason is I am on a tight budget and was only considering the XSi or the T1i. Their opinion was my Rebel XT can do what these cameras can do, with the right lens. Its this true? I really need advice!! I mainly shoot portraits outdoors of kids and families, with one upcoming small wedding for a friend.

depending on what you already have:

50mm 1/4
85mm 1/8
100mm 2

I'll second the 50 f1.4.

I use one now on an old XTI and LOVE it. The image quality has jumped significantly over the kit lens. You can pick one up new for about $340 or used for just under $300.

I'm now about to purchase a 24-70 f2.8L, but that's obviously a bit more than the $400 you're looking to spend.

I love my 50mm 1.4
but it's not a zoom lens, so you should be aware of that, on the other hand it's fast and good for portraits.
I like the 85mm 1.8 more though. you should also consider a used 100mm 2.8 macro (the non-L version)

i would really consider the tammy 17-50. its a zoom, its 2.8 and the current version has stabilization. i think it is just over 400, but for what it is, its worth it.

javierperalta wrote in post #10160180
I love my 50mm 1.4
but it's not a zoom lens, so you should be aware of that, on the other hand it's fast and good for portraits.
I like the 85mm 1.8 more though. you should also consider a used 100mm 2.8 macro (the non-L version)

Correct on the zoom, it's a prime so you'll have to compose your photos the old fashioned way. Still, if you're into portraits that shouldn't be a problem, and comparing similar quality lenses the image quality of the prime should be a bit higher than the zoom.

Never used the 85 so can't comment on that one.