New to DSLR - T2i, T3, or T3i

wayne.robbins wrote in post #14560326
I personally don't understand all that recommend a t2i over a t3i. OK, actually, I do- to an extent- we all do it. We buy a camera, and then to make ourselves feel better- it's what we recommend later.

T3i. Has a NUMBER of features that the t2i lacks. OK. Let's say we get an external flash. With the t2i- you've got to buy additional something- radio/wireless or wires to get the flash off camera. T3i- use the built in wireless flash controller. T3i also sports the swivel screen. Very handy for not just video. Ever want to take a shot from a lower level- T3i can do it easily without jumping thru the same motions that you need to do it with an earlier model ( Lay on the ground - then set up your shot ) vs T3i - turn on live view- swivel the screen so you can see it- and take your shot- Ideal for a number of instances.

IF I had a choice betwen a T3i or T2i or a T1i (Had previously) - I'd take the T3i anyday. If I could wait for the T4i- and get its feature set ( improved iso- hopefully- touch screen, improvements in AF behavior, all 9 cross type AF sensors ) - I certainly would- as long as it came out relatively soon and I didn't need something else before then.

So, yea- I'd take the t3i over any of the previous models. And a t4i over a t3i. The only problem I see- how long till it hits the shelves- it could be next week- or it could be 6 months from now. Who knows ? It's anyones guess.

OP is buying this for his wife who wants to get "more into photography", and by the models of cameras he's looking it, I'm assuming she's moving up from a point and shoot. Let's say he lays out about $700 for a refurbed T2i/18-55 kit with a 55-250 from Canon after taxes, or maybe saves $50 and goes with just the 28-135 with that T2i. If his wife wants more camera eventually, he can just move her up and limit losses on the resale end with that T2i. If she ends up not digging the DSLR thing in general, and that happens, then similarly he's not out hundreds when he goes to resell the kit.

If OP goes out and ponies up the extra for that T3i now (for about $100 more refurbished, with no real performance upgrades—just the articulating screen, wireless flash control, and some cool video features), or waits to get the T4i and puts out $850 for just the body, then he gets pummeled on the resale end no matter what.


If OP is made has money to burn, then you are absolutely right—T4i all the way! The new features they've added have pushed it up to and in some aspects past the 60D in performance (ISO and certainly for video).

Thanks for the additional insight. All appreciated.

I found a place I could get the T3I with both the 18-55 and 55-250 lenses for under 800 new, all things considered. Seems like a good value for new, am I right?

mrconos wrote in post #14562160
Thanks for the additional insight. All appreciated.

I found a place I could get the T3I with both the 18-55 and 55-250 lenses for under 800 new, all things considered. Seems like a good value for new, am I right?

yes, for T3i w/18-55IS and 55-250IS from an authorized Canon dealer

mrconos wrote in post #14559924
Hello all,
I'm new to DSLR world, actually looking to get a camera for my wife for her 30th bday. She is looking to get more into photography, particular to take photos of our son and family.
I'm mostly looking at the T2i, T3 and T3i. Was wondering if anyone had specific feedback on which would be the best for someone just getting into photography. I want to get something that will be good enough for her to use for the foreseeable future as well.
Couple of questions I have:
1) The T3 is significantly cheaper than the T2i/T3i, is the only difference lower resolution for photos (12 vs. 18MP) and video (720 vs 1080P)? I'm leaning towards the "i" line, but the lower price is intriguing. Any insight?
2) Is the only difference between the T2i and T3i the articulating lcd? Anything else worth noting?
3) I notice the T4i was just announced. Is it safe to assume there will be a price drop on the T2i and T3i, or not necessarily? My wife's birthday is 6/21, not sure if it was worth waiting until the last minute on.
4) Would you recommend, for a beginner, to get one of the stock lens kits (18-155mm?), or just the body and get a separate lens. If so, any recommendations?
Thanks in advance for any help.

1) I suggest going for the t4i.. There would not be a significant price drop on the other "i" series. I'd go for the t4i and get her the best of the best, for in the future she won't need to or want to upgrade her body for a while. (maybe 2 years or so)
http://www.usa.canon.c​om …ducts/cameras/s​lr_cameras

Pre-Order it here: http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …&InitialSearch=​yes&sts=ma
The 18-55mm is a pretty sweet deal. Hurry before it's too late.

2) Yes, just grab the kit lens for her. If possible grab a 50mm prime 1.8 for about $120. She should be set with this for a while.

a dslr is not a good investment financially unless you can make money with it. i think its more wise to look at the features which will make you happy vs. pinching pennies. if you're buying something purely for enjoyment, the initial price coupled with its expected resale should not be paramount considerations. enjoyability is #1 and i think the t4i will be the most enjoyable dslr under 1000 dollars ever. my biggest gripe about the t3i is the autofocus. the t4i has drastically improved this area. from an enjoyability standpoint, you're going to get much more keeper photographs out of a t4i than a t2i or t3i. the menu features, if anything like the t3i, will be tailored specifically to people who are noobs in the first place. i love love love my t3i for its useability.

the T2i will save you a little money, but she would almost positively appreciate the swivel screen on the T3i! CLP is a really great way to save a nice chunk of change on a camera. 2 day delivery time and you can exchange is if you get it and find its not up to par, but typically cameras come looking brand new.
Yes the T4i will make the prices on the others drop, but probably not as fast as you have time for.

Just make sure your wife understands that shooting video with a T3i/T2i is not like shooting with a video camera or the new T4i.

I know i love my canon t2i, its heavy for my use, however if your into getting great colors, that is the camera you want. I do not do a lot of videos though, eventhough i have taken some videos, which were great, im more into pictures