Needing some advice on cam for gf

I am wanting to get my girlfriend a camera. I am wanting to stick with the EOS line so we can share lenses. She really enjoys taking pictures but I will need to stay with the smaller cropped bodies. She doesn't even like holding my 5D so it will need to be smaller and lighter than that. I had an XTi several years ago and really liked it and it's features but it's not available any longer. What do you guys suggest?

I should add, most of her picture taking will be kids, her dogs, and of course, the Alaska scenery. She is a beginner in the dslr category.

550D would be the best choice

How about a refurbed XSi or even a refurbed T2i?

t2i

Jhap33 wrote in post #11226322
t2i

+ 1

You can usually grab a used XS with kit lens for $375-$400 on here. It can't do video, but it takes pictures well, is small and light, and has LiveView which for some reason most beginner photographers seem to love. Oh, and it won't hurt your wallet like a T2i can

If you're taking pictures of dogs with the kit lens, you'll need higher ISO to stop the constant motion that is inherent with rovers (indoors)

ISO performance is important, T1i is sufficient and the XS is rather lacking. I would do XSi at the very least and T2i may be overkill.

T2i or T2i are good choices. The 7D is too heavy for my fiancee, but my T1i is perfect for her.

Hey guys thanks for all the great real world responses. Some stuff to think of for sure.

EricL wrote in post #11228054
Hey guys thanks for all the great real world responses. Some stuff to think of for sure.

My wife loves her T1i.

xsi..you can get them for so cheap now

i would get rebel xsi or t1i. unless she needs better video she won't need a t2i.
heck i'd even get an xti but i'm sure you wouldn't want to get something used for your gf lol.