Upgrade from Digital Rebel Xt?

While reading a really good book on macrophotography and watching a number of macrophotography videos, I've been repeatedly exhorted to use live view.

Unfortunately, my camera is a Rebel Xt/350D, which does not support live view.

I haven the following questions:

1. Do I need to upgrade to something newer?
   
   
2. If the answer to 1) is "yes", upgrade to WHAT?
   
   

Temma wrote in post #18178568
While reading a really good book on macrophotography and watching a number of macrophotography videos, I've been repeatedly exhorted to use live view.

Unfortunately, my camera is a Rebel Xt/350D, which does not support live view.

I haven the following questions:

1. Do I need to upgrade to something newer?
   
   
2. If the answer to 1) is "yes", upgrade to WHAT?
   
   

I don't have a lot of money to spend. Since I want to stick to APS-C and already have lenses, tripods, etc., I don't need a kit; body only will do.

I'm reasonably happy with the 350D, and have gotten some nice images with it. Will I really benefit from a newer body, or should I stick with what I've got?

I think your question already contains the answer. It is a good thing to resist upgrading just for the sake of upgrading. Often folks here will ask, "What do you need that your current rig won't do for you?" Well, in your case, you have answered that: Live View.

A current body will have many improvements besides Live View too - better resolution (croppability), reduced noise, and bigger, clearer LCD screen being just a few.

A guide to Live View for Canon cameras is here.
http://learn.usa.canon​.com …OSLiveView_Quic​kGuide.pdf

You don't need LV to do macro.

Bassat wrote in post #18178592
You don't need LV to do macro.

You don't even need to do macro.

Bassat wrote in post #18178592
You don't need LV to do macro.

However a LOT of people seem to think it makes accurate manual focusing quite a bit easier.

Archibald wrote in post #18178606
You don't even need to do macro.

Nor indeed to own a camera. However, I choose to do both.

I'm in no frenzied rush to upgrade, but if I can do so at a reasonable price, I probably will.

Temma wrote in post #18178636
However a LOT of people seem to think it makes accurate manual focusing quite a bit easier.

If you are shooting a stationary object and are on a tripod or camera stand, then Live View is very useful. It gives the best possible focus, and at the same time flips up the mirror, reducing vibration while shooting.

Temma wrote in post #18178636
However a LOT of people seem to think it makes accurate manual focusing quite a bit easier.

Yes, if you are shooting static targets. LV is pointless for live, moving targets.

Archibald wrote in post #18178580
I think your question already contains the answer. It is a good thing to resist upgrading just for the sake of upgrading. Often folks here will ask, "What do you need that your current rig won't do for you?" Well, in your case, you have answered that: Live View.

A current body will have many improvements besides Live View too - better resolution (croppability), reduced noise, and bigger, clearer LCD screen being just a few.

A guide to Live View for Canon cameras is here.
http://learn.usa.canon​.com …OSLiveView_Quic​kGuide.pdf

Which camera do you recommend?

T5i? T6i?

Temma wrote in post #18178642
Which camera do you recommend?

T5i? T6i?

If you are going to get a new body, then now is the time to check out features and reviews of the different models, perhaps for shooting beyond macro too. The Rebels should be fine for doing great macro. I don't have specific info on them, though.

Archibald wrote in post #18178649
If you are going to get a new body, then now is the time to check out features and reviews of the different models, perhaps for shooting beyond macro too. The Rebels should be fine for doing great macro. I don't have specific info on them, though.

The T6i seems to review well. I'm leaning in that direction, although I'm probably looking at some time in the next year before I'll be able to do anything.

While I do pursue other subjects, my major interest is in macro, since I can do it at any time of day or night, regardless of weather or work schedule.

Bassat wrote in post #18178592
You don't need LV to do macro.

You might not need it but it sure helps. I couldn't imagine stacking without LV. Heck, I couldn't imagine going back to a camera without LV period.

Temma wrote in post #18178642
Which camera do you recommend?

T5i? T6i?

Either of those would be fine. I always try to get the latest technology I can afford which might work well for you as well as it looks as if you don't upgrade often.

T4i or greater. Be patient, and you should be able to find deals.

If you don't mind buying used cameras, then something like a 60D can be found at bargain prices, still delivering more of a camera than a xxxD model (Rebel in the US).