Opinions please?

I've recently decided it was time for me to get a new, better kind of camera than the ones I currently have, and it was suggested that I try a Canon EOS 30D. I've looked into this camera and find it highly appealing, but at the same time it's also a blow to the wallet. I was wondering, for those of you who have this model of camera, what your opinions on it are? I want to be confident in its capabilities before I go check into it further. Thanks.

Welcome to the Forum.

We'll all tell you that the 30D is a wonderful camera. I've got one myself and love it. The real question you should be asking is do I need the capabilities of a dSLR. You haven't told us what type of photography you are into and what camera(s) you'd be upgrading from. This will help us a lot in offering our opinion whether the 30D is right for you.

Will a 30D and a kit lens suit your needs or are you going to want other lenses also?

Give us a bit more insight in what you want in a camera. What are you currently using?...what do you photograph?....what do you want from a camera? A dSLR usually means a bit more work in PP not to mention the learning curve. Many people that more to dSLR's from point and shoots are a bit disappointed at first. They just don't get the extra image quality they were looking for (often due to the "learning curve" and lack of the right lens they need to acheive the results they want). Are you willing or do you want to purchase more/additional lenses? There are many variables to consider. Sometimes a nice point and shoot is a better option than the more expensive dSLRs. Give us some more info and I'm sure the great people here can guide you in the right direction to getting a camera that will work for you.

Yes, it depends on what you want to do and what your photography goals are.

Your post made me smile cuz that's kinda like going on the Porsche owner's forums and asking "do you guys recommend the 911?"

It depends on what you do. For amature use, 400D/XTi should be more than enough (assuming you feel comfortable holding that camera).

First, DSLR's take a little getting used to. If you can tell us what you like shooting, we can help out more. The Xti is over 10 mp and the 30D is over 8 mp. Either would be a wondering choice that you can grow with. Get a good book, as suggested "Understanding Exposure" is a favorite here. Learn about lenses and settings and styles and software, etc. It's up to you how much you want to invest and how far you want to go. It's a great ride, come join us! Welcome.

I'm mainly into outdoor shots, usually people. I plan on purchasing more lenses to suit the results I want, but since I am not acquainted with this camera I'll most likely start off with an experimental lens.
I have plenty of cameras at the moment, but my only "good" ones are my manuals. The digital I seek to replace right now would be my Sony, it's a Cybershot dscp200. When I do get the urge to do indoor photography, this one just doesn't cut it.
As for what I want in a camera, I obviously want clarify first off. I have photography programs on my computer that allow me to manipulate and erase grain and so forth, but it's always nice when such actions aren't required, as is the case with my manuals (which is why I like them so much).
Basically all I want is a camera suitable for clear outdoor shots, maybe weddings and sky shots.

Hmm, to tell you the truth, getting good clear outdoor shots and weddings depends on the lenses more so than the body. Getting really clear sharp pictures may be quite a dent in your wallet, more so than the 30D.

I really don't think the 30d is the right camera for you. I could sit here and tell you the 1Ds is a great camera, it is, but it's not for you. If you' really want a dslr, I think you'd be best with one of the rebels. They're not super exspensive, but they're great introductory cameras.

I also recommend starting with one of the digital rebels ( XT, XTi). Cheaper, a little less intimidating for the first time user, just as capable of taking good pics. Do be aware that you probably are not going to get the same results out of camera with a dslr as you do with your point and shoot. I'd start of slow, camera and kit lens. Use this combo as you hone your photographic skills. By the time you start noticing the shortcomings of the kit lens, you will hopefully have acquired enough knowledge to make an educated decision on your next lens.

Well, I do appreciate the insight and will look into lenses further. I am fairly experienced and already know my way around cameras a great deal; perhaps not the 30D as I have never handled one, but many camera functions are the same and I don't think I'd have a hard time figuring the 30D out. I have enough knowledge about photography already and don't think that I am required to "start" with a basic lense, since I've worked with different kinds for quite awhile now. I'll check out the rebels and then decide for myself whether I am "ready" for a 30D or if I should stick to the manuals I know so well.