Time to buy gear again...

I sold all of my gear except a few odds and ends back last year and now I've got another kid on the way and want to get some more gear. My problem is that I can't decide what to do. I've had it all at some point; 1D, Rebel, 30D, 40D. I'm considering a 1DMKII, 40D or 50D but I can't decide. I don't do any sports photography, mostly just family stuff, candids and what not so I don't really 'need' the 1D. My question is this: Is the 50D that much of an upgrade from the 40D? I know it has higher resolution and stuff but if it's not worth the extra cost I'd like to know why. I've been all over eBay and have recently been checking out the used stuff at B&H and Adorama. I don't want to spend more than around $900 for everything. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Chris

The main things you get with the 50D over the 40D are:

Increased resolution LCD screen
Higher MP
Micro-adjust

Other than that they are pretty much the same.

So you decide if any of those features are worth it for you.

i personally have a 40D, and would never upgrade to just a 50D. just not worth it. the next step for me is a 5D or a 7D

Medic85 wrote in post #11192651
I sold all of my gear except a few odds and ends back last year and now I've got another kid on the way and want to get some more gear. My problem is that I can't decide what to do. I've had it all at some point; 1D, Rebel, 30D, 40D. I'm considering a 1DMKII, 40D or 50D but I can't decide. I don't do any sports photography, mostly just family stuff, candids and what not so I don't really 'need' the 1D. My question is this: Is the 50D that much of an upgrade from the 40D? I know it has higher resolution and stuff but if it's not worth the extra cost I'd like to know why. I've been all over eBay and have recently been checking out the used stuff at B&H and Adorama. I don't want to spend more than around $900 for everything. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Chris

It appears you get through rather a lot of equipment, so my advice to you is buy the very best you can afford and try to hang on to it.

David

Woodworker wrote in post #11192859
It appears you get through rather a lot of equipment, so my advice to you is buy the very best you can afford and try to hang on to it.

David

Yeah...I kind of went crazy buying/selling/trading different gear.

if you aren't doing sports don't go for the 1d - great cameras but they're giant and not a "I'll grab my camera to take pictures as we go' type camera.

Depending on the price difference I'd grab either a 40d or a 50d. Probably the 50d for the greater mp count and micro adjust.

spiralspirit wrote in post #11194776
Depending on the price difference I'd grab either a 40d or a 50d. Probably the 50d for the greater mp count and micro adjust.

But he's already been along the xxD route and would be well advised to go for a 1DMk4.

David

You have kids? Probably 7D is a good option and long term investment. You want to catch them running around or doing performances so need the good AF.

If you get the 50D, you'll keep asking yourself "should I go for 60D, 7D or 5D2 next?"

I'm are the Canon G12 would meet your general family requirements. A cracking little camera with money left over for a great flash which you could use off camera.

i would buy the 40d and get some good glass to compliment it.
7d/1d series is more geared towards sports so it wouldnt really be necessary to buy. besides you would probably end up going over budget.

OP doesn't want to spend more than $900... Not sure if the OP has any glass..
Look for something used... If you go with a 40d you'll have a little more $ to put towards a lens as opposed to a 50d.

Thanks guys.

Yeah, I'm a little limited on budget so the 7D is out. Nice camera but too rich for my blood. I'm leaning more towards the used 40 or 50D right now. Dad has a 5D with some good glass that I can always use but I still would like to have my own gear again and not have to go borrow his all the time. Thanks for the suggestions.

Medic85 wrote in post #11197652
Thanks guys.

Yeah, I'm a little limited on budget so the 7D is out. Nice camera but too rich for my blood. I'm leaning more towards the used 40 or 50D right now. Dad has a 5D with some good glass that I can always use but I still would like to have my own gear again and not have to go borrow his all the time. Thanks for the suggestions.

Then 40D with glass. In the future, if you get the upgrade itch, it will feel more justifiable than if from a 50D

flickserve wrote in post #11196887
You have kids? Probably 7D is a good option and long term investment. You want to catch them running around or doing performances so need the good AF.

If you get the 50D, you'll keep asking yourself "should I go for 60D, 7D or 5D2 next?"

And where can they find one for $900 including lenses?

For $900 you might find a 40D, 18-55IS and maybe one other cheap lens or flash.