30D 'too much' camera for amateur?

I originally looked at the Xt (as well as the new Xti) and there is just something about the 30D that feels right! I am an amateur as well and you cannot go wrong with the 30D. It is definitely not too much for the amateur photographer. It can be a little intimidating at first, but the more you practice with it, the more you will love it!! You will not regret it!

A few months ago, there was someone with the same question. I mentioned to him that the XTi is good in it's own right, but, moving to a 30D would be better, as it would allow him to grow into it, and further into photography as his 'skills' became better. As of right now, he has added quite the lot to his collection, and seems to be enjoying his camera just as much as he did his point & shoot.

I say go with the camera that YOU feel is going to be the better choice. If you will be the one using it, primarily, I say get what you feel is the right one. Otherwise, you may regret it later on...

Oh, and yes, glass (i.e. lenses) do make a really big difference. However, the kit lens that comes with the 30D/XTi is a great lens to start with, to understand what you like to take pictures of, and where you will be taking them.

Good luck, and a warm welcome.

inthedeck wrote in post #2364551
A few months ago, there was someone with the same question. I mentioned to him that the XTi is good in it's own right, but, moving to a 30D would be better, as it would allow him to grow into it, and further into photography as his 'skills' became better.

What would enable someone to grow into photography further with a 30D. Correct me if I am wrong, but this implies to be that the 30D can do something that an XTi cannot......which would be what exactly?

I'm absolutely an amateur with a strong desire and a passion for learning. I have had the 30D for 4 months and am loving it. Go for it!!

cloose wrote in post #2364767
What would enable someone to grow into photography further with a 30D. Correct me if I am wrong, but this implies to be that the 30D can do something that an XTi cannot......which would be what exactly?

1) Make use of spot metering, which the XTI may/may not have.
2) Make use of the quick control dial (some like it, some like buttons), to me, the dial is much better.
3) Make use of the better ISO noise. The XTi may be better/not so, with DIGIC III, and all...but time will tell how it performs at different ISO's.
4) Body build, metal vs. plastic
5) Larger size body, vs. smaller body.

And no, I didn't mean to imply that the 30D 'beats' the XTi, but there are differences. For me, and my big hands, the 30D feels more comfortable. That's one concern that the OP has...and there's some other differences. So, hopefully that didn't come as an attack, as I didn't mean it as such. Usually, it's the tool behind the camera that takes the pictures...the body and lens just help.

If the 30D feels better in your hands you will be more prone to apply yourself to your new hobby instead of wishing you had bought the 30D.

There really is no such thing as too much camera for someone that truly is interested. There will always be features that you either don't use at all or seldom use on any camera body you buy.

The key is to buy a camera body that never lets you ask the question; Why can't my camera do?????? (at least if that feature is available at all)

Ken

inthedeck wrote in post #2364840
1) Make use of spot metering, which the XTI may/may not have.
2) Make use of the quick control dial (some like it, some like buttons), to me, the dial is much better.
3) Make use of the better ISO noise. The XTi may be better/not so, with DIGIC III, and all...but time will tell how it performs at different ISO's.
4) Body build, metal vs. plastic
5) Larger size body, vs. smaller body.

And no, I didn't mean to imply that the 30D 'beats' the XTi, but there are differences. For me, and my big hands, the 30D feels more comfortable. That's one concern that the OP has...and there's some other differences. So, hopefully that didn't come as an attack, as I didn't mean it as such. Usually, it's the tool behind the camera that takes the pictures...the body and lens just help.

Spot metering I'll definately give you, as to me, this is the only "photographic feature" that I can think of that sets them apart. Quick control dial, body size, build are preferences that do not affect any pictures coming out of the camera.

ISO noise? Not sure there is a difference. (At least not one that I have seen) XTi is still Digic II.

Sorry if I came across as defensive on any implication that a 30D is "better". It does seem that there are 30D users who definately feel threatened by the XTi , as the line between "entry level" and "semi-pro" is blurred with these cameras. Especially when things that set the 30D and XT apart were implimented in the XTi. Now, when the 40D comes out there will no doubt be advancements that re-seperate it from "entry level". In my very humble opinion, any purchase today comes down to comfort with the camera. I myself find the XTi quite comfortable (please no girly hand jokes ) and have gotten quite quick with the single command wheel (1 button push + wheel for secondary changes) but I can see how others will still apreciate the larger size and dedicated second wheel.

5 fps if you're into action shots

Thank you so much for all of your valuable input and the warm welcome. I will purchase my 30D with much confidence that I am making a great choice! I'm sure I'll be back soon with a million questions...

And I'm sure the XTI is a great camera...I just don't like the feel of it in my hands....didn't mean to start any 30D vs. XTI debates

Thanks!!

Another vote for the 30D. I have a 10D and a 20D with plans to pick up another body at this level in the spring. It's a good, solid camera rated for 100,000 actuations. The command dial, to me, is easier to master than all the buttons on the XTi and would probably be less confusing for the beginner. I have the use of an XT at work and usually opt to utilize my own cameras instead.

i am an amateur and a pretty lousy one at that and i use a 1 series body. the way i look at it, i can learn on this body and get to the highest level possible without needing to upgrade. also, it really doesn't matter if you are a pro or a beginner, you need to get the body that is most comfortable to you. i had the XT and it was a great camera but it didn't feel comfortable to me due to the size. to some, the 1 series will feel terrible due to the size and weight so the XT/ 30D is the better choice.

I had Xt and changed to 30D. I vote for 30D, bigger body, heavier more stable with heavier lens, 2 wheel for adjustments, more precise focus, manual white balance, more confortable then the smaller body for me hand (less hand cramps from days of shooting!) and more....

I think its took much camera for anyone starting out. Its not cheaply priced like the XTi and you'll only take half the loss if you but it but rarely use it.

I used to have a PAS (5500 Fujifilm) which has some of the extra settings of an DSLR (manual mode etc) This made me learn how to use these and now I have a 30D and love it. Once I read through the manual and learnt the different buttons were for and got used to the position I could concentrate on getting used to the advanced settings and playing around. To be honest if I had not had the PAS with the extra settings I think I would have learnt the 30D stuff fairly quick and then there is a lot more to learn so you can grow into it. The larger screen is great and the 5 fps is amazing. I only have the kit lens at the moment and having great fun. Will soon get an L for next years airshow curcuit GO WITH THE 30D if money is not too much of a problem...

ChrisBlaze wrote in post #2365457
I think its took much camera for anyone starting out. Its not cheaply priced like the XTi and you'll only take half the loss if you but it but rarely use it.

But it will re-sell better than the xt or the xti. The XT has dropped $350 in one year...the 30D is more ergonomic and often used by semi-pro's and pro's as a back-up. So it will hold it's value better and she wouldn't really take a much of a loss if she re-sold it. Though I shoot with the 5D, I've had both the xt (never tried the xti) and the 30D...my vote goes for the 30D. It's a great camera and the spot metering and control dial are invaluable. And the others are right when they say it can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. And shoots both ways just beautifully.