There are a lot of things to like about the just-announced Canon Digital Rebel XSi (450D). Inclusion of the DIGIC III processor is important. I'm using that processor in the G9, and it elevates the game noticeably. Also, 3.5 fps in a Rebel? My gosh, I don't have that speed in my EOS 5D. Having such a fast frame rate in a camera that sells for $799 US is a boon to folks who want to leverage burst mode. And you can shoot up to 53 JPEGs in burst, or 6 RAWs. Not bad at all.
The 3" Live View LCD is also a nice touch. Canon has designed this LCD so you can use it at odd viewing angles. You know how hard it is to shoot through a DSLR at ground level. Now with Live View on this well-designed LCD, low-angle shooting won't be a back-breaking task.
Believe it or not, I'm not as thrilled about the 12.2-megapixel sensor, especially if the DIGIC III can't control its noise at high ISOs. Since I haven't shot with the camera yet, it's too early to tell for sure. But I do know that my 10 megapixel XTi is nosier than the 8 megapixel XT. I'd like to see what the DIGIC III can do with a 10 megapixel sensor instead. But more to discover on this front.
I should also mention that, if you do go for the kit with the 18-55, that lens is now optically image stabilized, and it only costs you $100. Something to consider.
Overall, the Canon Rebel XSi looks like a great upgrade at a compelling price. I think its going to put great image quality and versatility in the hands of promising photographers... and the result will be more beautiful pictures. I'll follow up after I have a chance to play with the camera in Las Vegas at PMA.
The Canon XSi is available on Amazon for $799 US.
Technorati Tags: digital photography, DSLR, product review, Technology, The Digital Story, Canon Rebel XSi
What is you comments on the difference between XTi and XSi? Is it worth it to upgrade XTi to XSi
Is it worth it to upgrade XTi to XSi?
I have trouble using my old Sigma zomm on both the 350/XT and 400/XTi, do you know if the firmware is better on the XTs?
Zaga Bjælkehuse - Denmark
This is my first time i visit here. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! keep up the good work.
Hello I discovered your webpage by sheer luck, I was searching Bing for reviews on the wii when I found your site, I must say your webpage is very cool I truely think the layout, its amazing! I'm in a bit of a rush in this instance to fully read your site but I have favorited it and also signed up for your RSS feeds. I will be back when I free up some time. Bravo for a great blog.
Am not a canon advertiser but to say the least CANON rocks the photo world,just a sec have you ever seen the features it has OMG if you have not used it then there is nothing you know :)
Actually canon rocks more than any other camera especially for its quality photos,but they should lower their prices abit