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Ben
06-17-2004, 08:12 AM
This thread as been created due the the large amount of people asking about what Digital Camera to buy.

If you own a digital camera and would like to write a review on how it works, please do so in this thread, and do so in this style:

Make:
Model:
Megapixles:
Price Paid:
Bought New/Used:
Zoom (Optical/Digital):
Overall Satisfaction(1-10):
What you generally use it for:
Any other info you would like to add:


Then locate your exact camera here:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs.asp

and post the link to your camera.

You may also include a few sample images of your cameras ability, outdoors, indoors, close up (macro) and low light, however just post the url of the image (do not include the [IMG] code as it will take the page a while to load once we've got a few entrys, especially for people who have huge MP's).

This will help all people who are looking for a new Digital Camera.



IMPORTANT : If you own the same camera as someone else, please quote the posts of the people with the same camera as yours by clicking the quote box in the top right of each applicable post, and then do your own, that way people can easily compare the cameras rating from more than one person without having to scroll all over or change pages.


Enjoy.

Ben

Ben
06-17-2004, 08:29 AM
Make: Canon
Model: 300D (Rebel)
Megapixles: 6.3
Price Paid: $1549 + Tax
Date of Purchase: December
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Model Portfolio Shoots, Sports, Nature, Macro, Car Shows, Magazines.
Any other info you would like to add:

Having wanted to upgrade from my obslete (yet still useful) canon S200, I was looking for something with supreme image quality, versatility, and yet could still afford. I wanted an SLR, but most were still $3000 and up with any sort of lens.

The 300D is a pretty decent camera. As far as image quality, it's pretty hard to top, as it shares the sensor from it's more expensive 10D big brother.

The lens that it comes with is decent when you have nothing else and are not familiar with other lens' provided by Canon, but once you use other lens and such, you soon learn that the Kit lens included with the camera is garbage. Still usefull though, it offers a good range of zoom and is still very clear, however compared to the lens out there...it doesn't compare.

To keep the price down, the 300D came with a Plastic body. Many people complain about that, but I keep all my stuff in great shape, so this isn't an issue for me. I have yet to drop, bang, or scrape the body as of yet asside from some minor ones on the base from using concrete and other abbrasive objects as a tripod.

Overall the camera does what it should. I do wish it had a better auto focus for things coming towards you, but you cant expect the world for that the camera is worth.

Link:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_eos300d.asp

Photo Examples:

http://bennyunknown.deviantart.com/gallery/

SOLD LONG AGO.

Gonthro
06-17-2004, 08:33 AM
^^^:werd: ^^^ i have the same camera, and i must say it kicks ass.... now i will add a review from a not so great camera


Make: Kodak
Model: DX3600
Megapixles: 2.16
Price Paid: $450 (2-3 years ago)
Bought New/Used: NEW
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 2/3
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 3
What you generally use it for: point and shoot
Any other info you would like to add: this camera was very unsatasfactory, actually, it was junk, when it was working it was a great camera, but after about 6 months it start powering off for no reason what so ever, in the middle of taking a picture and it just shuts its self off, you tilt it a certian way and it came back on, i sent it to kodak for servicing, they took 3 months and did not fix the problem (but by the time i got it back, of course the warrenty was up). Long story short, i will never buy another kodak digi cam.


the review site
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Kodak/kodak_dx3600.asp

no samples online, sorry.

Melinda
06-17-2004, 08:53 AM
Make: Canon
Model: D60
Megapixles: 6.3 MP
Price Paid: $3700 (body only)
Bought New/Used: New in Sept 2002
Zoom (Optical/Digital): None, detachable lenses
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: I initially used it for photojournalism at SAIT but now that I have graduated and completed my degree, I have since become a professional photographer.
Any other info you would like to add: This camera has taken me through any situation I have had presented to me with great ease. Durable and professional looking, I love this camera and the only replacement I'd buy for it would be the new 11 MP canon camera.

C4S
06-17-2004, 09:33 AM
Good job Ben ! thank you !

can I pose the "Film" camera info too ? :D

anyway ..

Make: Nikon

Model: D70H

Megapixles: 6.3/6.1
Price Paid: $1869 + tax (with Kit lens)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Kit lens 17mm-70mm F3.5-4.5 / Tele : Nikkor 80-200mm F 2.8
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8.5
What you generally use it for: Fun ! and will use for few weddings.

Any other info you would like to add: Overall ..good ! I had a tough time to decide between this and the 300D, in fact, I didn't plan to buy Nikon, the day I supposed to pick up the 300D.. I ended up saw the D70H ! (first few days it came out) and ..somehow ...bought it !
The down side for this, when using 17mm, and F3.5 on kit lens, there will be shadows over all 4 corners .. which is .sort of normal, but not really acceptable.. basically, beside nite shot, the widest I will use on this lens is 19mm (equal to about 28mm)
The best thing is ...it works amazing with SB-800 ! Awesome i-TTL, great Remote function too !
:thumbsup:

And ..will see .. one day I probaby will switch back to Canon .. but by then, ithere might be something call EOS 1D mark III or IV already ! :nut:

roopi
06-17-2004, 09:33 AM
Make: Sony
Model: DSC-F717
Megapixels: 5.0
Price Paid: 1299 CAD April 2003 (Now $999 CAD)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 5x Optical / 10x Digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Everything

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Sony/sony_dscf717.asp

xkon
06-17-2004, 11:11 AM
Make: Canon
Model: S400
Megapixels: 4.0
Price Paid: 599 CAD Dec 2003
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x Optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Everything, and I love it :)

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_s410.asp

lint
06-17-2004, 11:33 AM
Make: Canon
Model: A80
Megapixles: 4.0
Price Paid: $425 CAD$ (tax in!:thumbsup: )
Bought New/Used: New, 05/2004
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x optical plus digital that I don't use
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Taking pictures, really like macro photography
Any other info you would like to add: First digicam, smaller than a DSLR but with plenty of manual features to play around with. Need to buy some lenses for it now.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_a80.asp

benyl
06-17-2004, 12:05 PM
Originally posted by Ben
Make: Canon
Model: 300D (Rebel)
Megapixles: 6.3
Price Paid: $1549 + Tax
Date of Purchase: December
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Model Portfolio Shoots, Sports, Nature, Macro, Car Shows, Magazines.
Any other info you would like to add:

Having wanted to upgrade from my obslete (yet still useful) canon S200, I was looking for something with supreme image quality, versatility, and yet could still afford. I wanted an SLR, but most were still $3000 and up with any sort of lens.

The 300D is a pretty decent camera. As far as image quality, it's pretty hard to top, as it shares the sensor from it's more expensive 10D big brother.

The lens that it comes with is decent when you have nothing else and are not familiar with other lens' provided by Canon, but once you use other lens and such, you soon learn that the Kit lens included with the camera is garbage. Still usefull though, it offers a good range of zoom and is still very clear, however compared to the lens out there...it doesn't compare.

To keep the price down, the 300D came with a Plastic body. Many people complain about that, but I keep all my stuff in great shape, so this isn't an issue for me. I have yet to drop, bang, or scrape the body as of yet asside from some minor ones on the base from using concrete and other abbrasive objects as a tripod.

Overall the camera does what it should. I do wish it had a better auto focus for things coming towards you, but you cant expect the world for that the camera is worth.

Link:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_eos300d.asp

Photo Examples:

http://bennyunknown.deviantart.com/gallery/

Model: 300D (Rebel)
Megapixles: 6.3
Price Paid: $1399 + Tax
Date of Purchase: December 23, 2003
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7 (I am hard to please)
What you generally use it for: Model Shoots, Sports, Nature, Car Shows, family picutres.
Any other info you would like to add:

Money pit! Not the camera, the lenses!

Quality is excellent. Camera does what it is supposed to do. Plastic silver body isn't great. Kit lens is sharp, but slow. Optional Battery grip feels cheaper than the camera.

Would like the features that are disabled without having to resort to a hack.

Won't upgrade until the price of the 1DMkII comes down.

tulit
06-17-2004, 02:05 PM
Make: Canon
Model: D30
Megapixles: 3.0
Price Paid: 1200
Bought New/Used: Used
Zoom (Optical/Digital): No digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Sports, Features (newspaper)
Any other info you would like to add:
My workhorse for the last year and a half. Have put close to 40,000 photos and a shutter through it in that time. No major problems other than the flash controller no longer works. Good high ISO performance. Poor AF performance in low light. IMO produces the nicest/creamest (sp?) photos out of ANY of canons digital cameras. Will definately keep it as my backup once my new camera gets here.

Loose
06-17-2004, 03:09 PM
Make: Canon
Model: SD100
Megapixles: 3.2
Price Paid: $399
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 2/3.2
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7
What you generally use it for: Point and shoot, all types of events.
Any other info you would like to add:


I like this camera, mainly for it's robust construction and quality. It has a metal body, which I can appreciate. I think most people looking for a camera (the layman) are too obsessed with image quality. What they should be focusing on more is ease of use and durability. This camera has been great in those regards, and its small size and slim profile encourage me to bring it more often than if I had a bigger "better" camera.

My only gripes with it is that I'd prefer some more manual features, more optical zoom, and better image quality, hense the 7/10 rating. However, I dont' think I'd be complaining about quality if it weren't for my experience with my office's DSLR Nikon.

Link:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_sd100.asp

3G
06-17-2004, 04:32 PM
Make: Canon
Model: A60
Megapixles: 2
Price Paid: $159.99 +tax
Bought New/Used: Refurbished
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 7.5 optical & digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Everything, pretty solid camera
Any other info you would like to add: If you're going to buy a digital camera, don't settle for less than CANON!

Weapon_R
06-21-2004, 05:08 PM
Originally posted by Ben


Make: Canon
Model:S200
Megapixles: 2.0
Price Paid:~400
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 2.5x
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 6
What you generally use it for: daytime shots
Any other info you would like to add: Not really happy with it. The daylight pics are great, but it takes terrible night time pictures. Weak zoom, and any closeups are blurry.


Here's a link:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_s200.asp

hondarunner
06-21-2004, 07:26 PM
Make:Canon
Model:S410
Megapixles:4.0
Price Paid:$450+tax
Bought New/Used:New
Zoom (Optical/Digital):3X optical, 11X digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10):9
What you generally use it for:everything and anything

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_s410.asp

teknical
07-16-2004, 12:25 PM
Originally posted by lint
Make: Canon
Model: A80
Megapixles: 4.0
Price Paid: $425 CAD$ (tax in!:thumbsup: )
Bought New/Used: New, 05/2004
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x optical plus digital that I don't use
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Taking pictures, really like macro photography
Any other info you would like to add: First digicam, smaller than a DSLR but with plenty of manual features to play around with. Need to buy some lenses for it now.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_a80.asp

Have the same camera, can't say much more then what lint did, 2nd camera, first I bought. Bought in Dec 2003, love the camera, haven't had much time to play around with it yet, but am getting better. Looking to purchase some upgraded lenses for it to see what it can really do.

camby
09-07-2004, 08:33 PM
Make: Nikon
Model: Coolpix 4100
Megapixles: 4.0
Price Paid: $399.99 + Tax
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x Optical/ Digital never use
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Everything
Any other info you would like to add:
Good camera. I like the 15 preset scene modes that it comes with. Very easy to use. Good name NIKON lense. Good solid camera for pictures of whatever with quite a bit of functions.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Nikon/nikon_cp4100.asp

benyl
12-29-2004, 03:05 PM
Forgot about this thread.

Make: Canon
Model: 20D
Megapixles: 8.2
Price Paid: $1449 USD ~ ($1750 CDN at the time)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Everything and anything
Any other info you would like to add:

It has proper flash sync, Focus tracking and a HUGE ass buffer for sequence shots. These are the main things missing from the 300D. The custom function rock.

BW photos directly out of the camera are cool too.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canoneos20d/

GucciBoy
01-24-2005, 11:18 PM
Make: Canon
Model: SD10 piano black
Megapixles: 4.0
Price Paid: $100
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 0
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9.5
What you generally use it for: Everything! On the go, TINY!!!
Any other info you would like to add: Umm, its TINY TINY TINY, smallest Canon to date! Smaller than a cell phone!

DeathBy240
03-16-2005, 07:55 PM
Make: Canon
Model:10D
Megapixles:6.3
Price Paid:$1200, no lens
Bought New/Used:Slightly used
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens dependant 28-200mm Tamron at the moment
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9.5
What you generally use it for: Photojournalism. I shoot sports and news for the MacEwan paper, Intercamp. Also do a lot of outdoor photography for fun. Will be doing a few weddings this summer.
Any other info you would like to add: This has been a great camera for what I use it for. Much heavier and more durable than the Rebel, but I am gentle with it anyway. Much more user friendly than the 300D Rebel too. I cant wait until I can afford more lenses. The tamron has been pretty good considering how much I got it for.

Link
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_eos10d.asp

I'll post up some photo samples when I got my other computer back from the shop.

GucciBoy
05-06-2005, 10:38 AM
Make: Canon
Model: SD400
Megapixles: 5.0
Price Paid: $299
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9.9
What you generally use it for: Everything!

scenic121
08-08-2005, 02:43 AM
CASIO EXILIM PRO EX-P600/P700
Dear Fellow Forum Members: I had intended to purchase one of the two cameras mentioned above but do not know which is suitatble. I am hoping someone can show me the way!

Thaco
08-08-2005, 07:13 AM
Make: Canon
Model: SD500
Megapixles: 7.1
Price Paid: $630
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital):3x Optical (dont know or care about digital :D)
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: small family gatherings and other stuff i dont want to take the rebel to.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canonsd500/

scenic121
08-08-2005, 03:33 PM
What you generally use it for: small family gatherings and other stuff i dont want to take the rebel to.

I doubt this Exilim has the equal of the Rebel - but I would use it for Point&Shoot purpose.

haku
08-08-2005, 04:16 PM
Make: nikon
Model: D100
Megapixles: 6.1
Price Paid: 2.000 euro
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 70-200 mm zoom & 35 - 70 mm
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: fotoshoots, events
Any other info you would like to add: yeah, I made these pictures with it:


http://freestylecommunity.com/gallery/content/Dutch%20Eventz/AutomaxJapanseAutoFestival2005/DSC_0001%20copy.jpg
http://freestylecommunity.com/gallery/content/Dutch%20Eventz/AutomaxJapanseAutoFestival2005/DSC_0002%20copy.jpg
http://freestylecommunity.com/gallery/content/German%20Eventz/EssenMotorshow2004/DSC_0006.JPG
http://freestylecommunity.com/gallery/content/German%20Eventz/EssenMotorshow2004/DSC_0005.JPG
http://freestylecommunity.com/gallery/content/Dutch%20Eventz/01%20NL-Automaxx2005SE/DSC_0000.JPG

BerserkerCatSplat
11-14-2005, 12:19 AM
I just noticed this thread, time to do a quick review of my bit of photographic fury.

Make: Toshiba
Model: PDR-3300
Megapixels: 3.2
Price Paid: $299.99 CAD
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 2.8X Optical, 2.2X digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7
What you generally use it for: It's my only unit, so i use it for everything.
Any other info you would like to add:
This camera (and its big brothers, the 4300 and 5300) have an incredible amount of features for the price.

Pros:
Good Canon lens
Decent battery life (4XAA)
Shutter priority, Aperture priority, and full manual modes!
Adjustable ISO (3 settings)
Adjustable white balance
Low price!

Cons:
Digital zoom is completely useless
Very weak flash
Prone to camera shake, needs tripod if not using flash
Pictures are quite noisy!
Slow startup
Sometimes fails to recognize SD card

So, I'm giving it a 7/10. When I bought it, it would have been a 10/10, but times change and I've reached the limits of its functionality. This is a great camera for someone who needs a point&shoot, but wants to learn how to control a manual camera!

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Toshiba/toshiba_pdr3330.asp

abc1
02-19-2006, 05:22 AM
Make: Canon
Model: PowerShot A620
Megapixles: 7.1
Price Paid: $386.15 cdn (tax in about 2 months ago)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 4x/16x
Overall Satisfaction(1-10):9
What you generally use it for: Everything!
Any other info you would like to add:
This was a upgrade from the Powershot A75 that I bought for $405 bucks about over a year ago (shows how much technology has changed).I was stuck between choosing the Powershot S2 IS or this one. I wanted something closer to a SLR, I guess I should of went with the Powershot S2 IS. I would give satisfaction a 10, but I felt I made the wrong choice. But the camera is a 10 though!!

Pros:
-Solid sturdy body
-Very good marco. I think it's about 1cm?
-Awesome price!
-20 shooting modes with C,M,Av,Tv,P modes
-Simple camera to use
-Has many years of use

Cons:
-Might be too big and heavy for some peoples liking
-No ISO button
-Flimsy DC IN A/V OUT cover
-Inaccurate optical viewfinder
-Need 4 AA batteries

I took some pictures at Tokyo Auto Salon shown in this thread (http://forums.beyond.ca/showthread.php?s=&threadid=115674) I have many other pictures I took also, but too lazy to upload them.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_a620.asp

HyperZell
04-10-2006, 11:14 PM
Make: Canon
Model: SD450
Megapixles: 5.0
Price Paid: $376
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x Optical, 4x Digital
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8.5
What you generally use it for: All-purpose
Any other info you would like to add:

This is a fun little camera. Although it is prone to camera shake, it does a very good job of capturing sharp images outside of the digital zoom. I'm still learning about the functions of the camera, but so far they are varied enough to qualify as a good starting point for those uninitiated in the world of photography. The size and look is fantastic, as are the controls and 2.5" LCD screen. I picked up the case and extra battery with it, as I heard that battery life is not the greatest. Marvelous camera for the range and target audience, but probably not for the hardcore photographer.

TurboMedic
04-11-2006, 07:17 AM
Make: Nikon
Model: D50
Megapixles: 6.3
Price Paid: $1200
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 50mm f1.8, 70-300mm f3.5-4.5G, 28-105 f3.5-4.5D Macro, 18-55mm f3.5-4.5G ED
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Everything.....I'm a nerd
Any other info you would like to add: Its not about the body, its the lenses! Kit lens is soso, but still reasonably sharp....I bought a Nikon 28-105 w/ macro and its amazing quality, and even my cheap 70-300G is great for still wildlife pics. THe camera is small, but still not too small to be uncomfortable (think Rebel XT, too small!). It takes better photos than the D70 thanks to the new sensor, and has fantastic ISO noise control. I'm not happy about the ISO steps (only 4 total, but in auto ISO it will do inbetween steps...why? I want to do that), and some fine WB tuning would be nice.....Camera takes amazing photos, and is a blast to use...

seer_claw
04-11-2006, 09:15 AM
Make: Canon
Model: Powershot S50
Megapixles: 5.0
Price Paid: $800
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x/2x (I think)
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Everything right now, its my only camera.
Any other info you would like to add:

It has a ton of features as it has the ability of being able to go fully manual on the settings. Everything from Aperture and shutter speed. One thing is that for night time (Northern lights, stars) the minimum shutter is 15 sec, which is not long enough to capture a lot and it doesn't have a remote setting. See my pictures for what I mean, the northern lights picture was a 15 sec exposure and the stars really aren't all that visible. Also the ability to shoot in RAW format is a big plus. Overall a very good camera when I bought it and I don't regret the purchase it one bit.

Powershot S50 (http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canons50/)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Albian/103_0399.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/My%20Car/121_2119.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Other%20Pics/111_1157.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Other%20Pics/107_0778.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Other%20Pics/120_2040.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Assorted/125_2565.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v185/seer_claw/Assorted/117_1780.jpg

Ben
06-15-2006, 11:09 PM
Make: Canon
Model: 30D
Megapixles: 8.2
Price Paid: $2200 w/ 3 Extra Batteries, Grip, Bag, 50mm.
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Model Portfolios, Archetecture, Car Shows, Artistic Nude.



http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_eos30d.asp

First impressions on this camera is outstanding. The camera was a spontanious purchase for no reason at all, I just wanted to see what it was all about. No Buyers remorse here.

I was SHOCKED at the size of the buffer. I can pull over 80 photos on L Fine JPG at 5 frames per second. This compared to the rated 30 is amazing. It also has selectable speed, for either 3 or 5 frames per second. The cameras Spot metering is extremely effective, an item I was sorely lacking in the 20D.


The Auto focus AI Servo is extremely acurate and actually intelligent.

The camera from time on to shooting it's first shot is roughly a third of a second. This was another benefit.

I enjoy the range of ISO modes, Besides the typical 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200; it has the ability to select in between those values. The areas between 200 and 400, and 400 and 800 are very helpful. Excellent noise reduction as well.

I appreciate the larger screen size, 2.5" over the 1.8 is a massive upgrade. It is so much nicer to view.

I would say overall it's worth the money over the 20D due to the small added features, and the 5D is a waste of money, as I didn't find the Full frame and extra megapixels worth the extra $2000. In a year when I upgrade cameras again (I buy a new DSLR every year) I'm sure there will be a full frame DSLR in the 2-3k range, until then, this will have to do.

Cheers!

seer_claw
06-16-2006, 12:04 AM
Make: Nikon
Model: D70s
Megapixles: 6.1
Price Paid: $1700
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
Other Equipment Inc: Filter, Bag, CF Card, 2nd Battery, IR remote
What you generally use it for: Everything, I really like playing around with macro settings and I really want to try to capture more northern lights but Calgary really isn't the place for that.
Any other info you would like to add:

Like any DSLR its got all the features of a typical entry level model. I was looking between this one and the Canon Rebel XT but what sold me was the much better feel of the handgrip and the fact that I could actually fit my fingers around it was nice. Also having 2 dials, 1 for aperture and 1 for shutter is really nice when your shooting in manual mode. The battery life is amazing, I couldn't believe how long it actually lasts, I think that I got about 400 pictures downloaded them and played with the settings on 1 charge.

The kit lens (AF-S DX 18-70mm) is awesome, much better quality than the Rebel or the D50. Well worth getting as a good starting point

Not a full review
Nikon D70s (http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Nikon/nikon_d70s.asp)

Almost the same as:
Nikon D70 (http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond70/)

BerserkerCatSplat
06-16-2006, 01:50 AM
Make: Nikon
Model: D50
Megapixles: 6.1
Price Paid: $775 + tax
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Lens Dependant
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
Other Equipment Inc: 2X Polarizers
What you generally use it for: Anything, really. The 18-55 kit lens is quite versatile.
Any other info you would like to add:

Like many entry-level DSLR shoppers, I was torn between the D50 and Rebel XT. Both are extremely capable cameras, with features that would have been extremely expensive just a few short years ago, for a bargain price. What really won me over to the Nikon was the feel of the camera. The Rebel XT feels tiny, plasticky, and somewhat toylike in comparison to the meaty, magnesium-framed D50. Other positive points the D50 has are the ability to spot-meter and extremely good ISO performance, even at ISO 1600. Placement of the LCD screens was also superior on the D50, and the main LCD is both larger and much clearer than the XT's rather small screen.

The "flaws" of the D50 are few. One thing that many people point out is that the secondary LCD is not backlit. While this seems poor, everything displayed on the unlit screen can be either checked through the LCD display in the viewfinder, or though the menu on the main LCD. If you absolutely must use that screen, buy a $3 mini-flashlight and call it a day.

The 18-55 kit lens performs very well for the miniscule price when bought as part of the D50 Outfit. Focus is not lightning-fast, as it lacks true AF-S, but it is still quite reasonable for anything other than close-up action photography in Continuous Autofocus mode. It's decently sharp if used correctly, and makes a nice wide-angle lens. The 18-70 kit lens is superior, but is more expensive and not available as part of an Outfit with the D50.

Overall, I have been extremely pleased with the D50. For the price, it is an excellent unit for anyone looking to start out in SLR photography.

scenic121
09-25-2006, 06:32 AM
Affordable compact digital cameras typically have 3X optical zoom, which is fine for most situations. But when you want to get close to the action on the soccer field or at the recital, 3X won't always suffice. So I was excited to see that the HP Photosmart R817 has 5X optical zoom—and at a reasonable price. Although my initial enthusiasm was dampened a bit by the R817's relatively slow speeds and significant shutter lag, I still think it's the best 5-megapixel compact camera for beginners.

The R817 has a 5X optical, 5.8- to 29-mm zoom range (a 35-mm equivalent of 36 to 180 mm) with a maximum f/stop range of f/2.8 to f/4.7 across the zoom range. Features include 32MB of onboard memory, 640-by-480 VGA MPEG-1 video clips at 30 frames per second, and 15 scene modes, including auto. It also sports a 2-inch LCD, although it is not articulating. The camera comes with a small camera dock that isn't particularly sturdy, but won't tip over either.

I particularly appreciate the R817's concise, informative on-screen help for beginners. The menu layout is quite easy to navigate, and the hand-holding features, such as the Top Ten Tips, are perfect for novices.

The HP Photosmart R817 isn't as sexy looking as some point-and-shoots of similar size, but it takes great photos and gives novice photographers a gentle introduction to digital photography.

So far I am happy with it!

http://cnet.nytimes.com/HP_Photosmart_R817/4505-6501_7-31411745.html

TurboMedic
11-09-2006, 12:13 AM
Make: Nikon
Model: D80
Megapixles: 10.2MP
Price Paid: $1150 tax in body only. $1500 w/lens
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): N/A
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): will add later with more use!
What you generally use it for: Everything....nudies to flowers
Any other info you would like to add: Feels great, same size as my D50 (which was an awesome camera!), smokin AF system. Nice dedicated function buttons. Fantastic viewfinder w/ 95% FOV, very noticeable. Well balanced with the 18-70 lens I picked up. Improved 3 channel RGB histograms is great. Neat ability to do multiple exposures just like film! Before shooting much with it, I love it already for all the features it has (think D200, but affordable!). The only cons are the file sizes, I can get roughly 75 RAW files/gb of memory, but thats just how it goes! Instant on is a neat feature. ISO selectable from 100-3200, in 1/3, or 1/2 increments. Claimed 2700 shot battery life! Battery also has a neat memory that will track shots/charge. Read the review, its a very neat camera!

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond80/

AccentAE86
11-30-2006, 11:44 AM
Make: Canon
Model: 20D and 30D
Megapixles: 8.2
Price Paid: $1500 (oct 2005) $1400 (june 2006)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): depends on your lens
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: wedding and people photography

Any other info you would like to add:

These cams are killer.
8 megapixels is enough for 95% of the world. 30"x20" prints are NO problem. Remember, the professional canon 1D2 model is also 8MP.

Lightning fast response in everything... you're never waiting for the camera to respond to anything.

High ISO performance is amazing. Have no reservations using ISO3200.

For the working pro, the extra-precise centre focus point when using F/2.8 or faster lenses is a life saver. I can hit focus in very dark conditions that I wouldn't have a hope with my slower lenses. In bright conditions, it becomes even more precise.

Using an external flash, you can expect 3000 shots on a single charge. It's almost ridiculous.

These cams deliver just about everything I could ever want in the craziness of wedding shooting. I can't even imagine what improvements they'll bring out in the 40D other than useless gay stuff like dust-clean and 10MP.

30D improvements over 20D

1/3 stop ISO
ISO displayed in viewfinder
Spot meter
2.5" LCD screen
selectable 3 and 5 fps burst modes
minor improvement in autofocus

As a note, I chose the 30D over the 20D for a second body because of it's bigger LCD screen to help check for focus accuracy. Well, both the 30 and 20D generate the SAME sized thumbnails for LCD preview.... so what happens is that ALL photos look soft on the 30D LCD when fully zoomed in, no matter how sharp the actual photo is. I found checking focus to be easier on the small 20D screen. My only annoyance with the 30D.

djayz
12-08-2006, 10:08 PM
Make: Canon
Model: Powershot A710is
Megapixles: 7.1
Price Paid: $359.99 + $40 for 2GB SD Card
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Optical 6x/Digital-Dont know dont use it.
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Everything

Any other info you would like to add:
Great camera for the price you cant go wrong. I researched for a good 3-4 months before i decided on this one. It has many features that many of the compact slrs have but i wanted the smaller size so its easier to carry around. No other compact camera comes close to this camera for features and shooting modes and the 6x optical zoom is hard to find. Im a sony camera guy but the lack of good cameras recently led me to this canon and so far im extremely pleased.

The canon G7 which is a very nice camera as well is what i compared this too and i chose this one over that mainly because of price. The A710is is roughly half the price of the G7 which comes in at $699+TAX. The g7 is a little bulkier but its definately easier to use as it has external controls such as iso setting. Another great thing about the g7 is the ability to attach an
external flash.

Overall if your looking for an awesome camera on a budget get the A710is, if your looking for an awesome camera and want a few more features like face detection which isnt needed if you know how to use a camera and the new digic3 processor spend the money and get the G7.

I will put sample pics from the A710is when i get a chance.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_a710is.asp
http://dpreview.com/reviews/canong7/

ex1z7
05-08-2007, 11:23 AM
Seems the Canon crew is getting bigger :|.

Make: Nikon
Model: D50
Megapixles: 6.1
Price Paid: $775
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Based on lens
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Everything
Any other info you would like to add: I picked this camera up with the high hopes that it would cure my need for a more capable camera to shoot the things I want to shoot.. So far it's been a really interesting experience learning how to actually /use/ the camera. Theres little things I never knew about when picking up a DSLR, like how to actually mount the lens.. or how to manually focus hah.. I learned pretty quick and picking up and reading the manual has helped a lot to get the finer functions worked out.

A thing I've learned with shooting DSLR over a P&S.. My P&S pictures were pretty good, and I got used to setting the picture up and snapping. Done. I fixed the colour and all that stuff when I got home - my pictures were very rarely underexposed or overexposed and everything was a breeze. Point, and shoot. Hence the purpose of the camera.. But with the D50 I noticed there are SO many things I had never really considered knowing before. Like which f/stop to use, or how long of a shutter speed to use for a specific shot.. Or how easy it is to take 20 pictures at 20 different variations and have 20 vastly different shots of the exact same thing..

I highly recommend anyone get into DSLR photography just for the sheer fun of learning it. I've started to learn the core fundamentals all over again, and now I know exactly what people told me to do before.

"Take lots of pictures. Lots..and lots..and lots.."

Before I'd take a snap, look at it on my screen and go "oh.. I'll do that one again", do it again, get it, and move on - but with the D50 I can take the same picture numerous times and have so many different results I just can't stop adjusting things I've never been able to adjust before.

All in all, it's a beautiful camera, and I'm extremely happy with it. The only downfall I find with the camera is with the 18-55mm lens, it's a great lens, but I know the 18-70 to be far superior, it's just depressing how quickly you pick up the camera and start thinking "...damn I want more" more filters, more lenses, more more more .. Without the option of adding so much more with a P&S you don't think about it, but with a DSLR it's like being in a candy store..

------------ Got a second body.. Figured I'd post up more ------------

Make: Nikon
Model: D70s
Megapixles: 6.1
Price Paid: $400
Bought New/Used: Used
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Based on lens
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 8
What you generally use it for: Everything
Any other info you would like to add: Everything that I posted above about the D50 is much the same with the D70s.. A few pro's a few con's and a few awkward turtle moments..

Pro's compared to the D50
- Second adjustment wheel for Aperture, aperture on the D50 you control (in M anyways) with a depress of a button and the spin of the main wheel. D70s has 2 wheels..
- The aperture adjustment on the D50 in M does not allow you to use exposure compensation - the D70s does with a button push, and wheel spin.
- Bigger, feels more difficult to drop almost with a slightly larger, more sharply outlined grip, it's easier to hold.

Con's compared to the D50
- Higher noise at higher ISO's compared to the D50
- A few more functions, originally confusing as they were new to me..
- Slightly less vibrant colours with preset modes and preset WB.

Overall I'm extremely pleased with my purchase of a backup body for my D50, which I had to send in for servicing.. Both never leave my bag, and both camera's get a workout anytime I shoot.. though I opt to grab the D70s before the D50..

------------ Got a third body.. another edit. ------------

Make: Nikon
Model: FM2n
Megapixles: ... what?
Price Paid: Gift
Bought New/Used: Used
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Based on lens
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 11
What you generally use it for: Special shots, anything winter based that my Digitals dislike being in.

I recieved an FM2n for my birthday a month and a bit ago from my mom - armed with a 135mm prime, I was immediately impressed with the feel of the camera, how hefty and well made it seemed - a quick strap change to a Nikon Coolpix thin black strap, a pair of fresh batteries for metering, and some questions on how to load film properly later - and I also carry this camera near everywhere I go. Oh how I wish it had a grip on it for one handed shooting.. But I can live with it.

Manual focus, manual film advance, manual aperture and shutter control - Nothing automatic, a really grounding camera for shooting as it brings you into the action more, makes me really appreciate the craft and art - I think everyone should have a film camera, even if you use it once a month, or even once a quarter-year.. Even if you just use it for a protection method from muggers, getting a whack from a solid metal camera would deter most, I would think.. I doubt it would harm the camera any, either.

Originally VERY confusing for myself to operate, as I had never loaded a cartridge of film before, nor had to guess aperture and shutter for the scene.. Since then, the camera is almost second nature to operate, I hope I can find a good scanner to throw up some images from this little thing soon..

spikerS
12-26-2007, 11:22 PM
Make:Pentax
Model: K100D
Megapixles: 6.1 or 6.3 can't recall
Price Paid: $499.99 + tax
Bought New/Used: new
Zoom (Optical/Digital): I think it is 3x optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7-8
What you generally use it for: this is our first DSLR. We pretty much use it for point and shoot right now, but my wife is experimenting with different functions with the camera and we are really happy with the different types of pictures we take and the different settings. As we become more well versed with it, we will upgrade.

scenic121
12-27-2007, 04:46 AM
Originally posted by spikers
Make:Pentax
Model: K100D
Megapixles: 6.1 or 6.3 can't recall
Price Paid: $499.99 + tax
Bought New/Used: new
Zoom (Optical/Digital): I think it is 3x optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7-8
What you generally use it for: this is our first DSLR. We pretty much use it for point and shoot right now, but my wife is experimenting with different functions with the camera and we are really happy with the different types of pictures we take and the different settings. As we become more well versed with it, we will upgrade.

The next move would be to get the K10D, with alittle bit more money you get a worthwhile camera! Enjoy

frozenrice
01-13-2008, 03:17 PM
Make: Canon
Model: Rebel XTi (400D)
Megapixles: 10.1
Price Paid: $529US - body only
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital):lens dependant - no digital zoom
Overall Satisfaction(1-10):8 so far
What you generally use it for: candids of kids, family snapshots, misc. snapshots etc.,

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_eos400d&show=all

So far this has been a kick-ass camera - a huge, huge difference/improvement over our P&S Fuji E510. I used to shoot SLR film and have held off until now to get a DSLR mainly due to price. I like the versatily of SLR lenses too over P&S. I was able to take some shots the other day that I'd never imagine with our P&S. Autofocus is also quite slick too. My last SLR was manual focus so the AF feature is sweet for sure. So far I am totally impressed and satisfied.

Just a few random shots I've taken over the week:

Action shot :
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/frozenrice/IMG_0144.jpg
Kind of a depth of field practice shot :
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/frozenrice/IMG_0062.jpg

fivesn6s
09-25-2008, 08:19 AM
Make: Sony
Model: A200 Alpha DSLR
Megapixles: 10.2
Price Paid: $600
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 7X
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Anything and everything. Tons of features and a great camera for beginners and intermediate photographers!

flipstah
10-17-2008, 11:47 PM
Make: Canon
Model: PowerShot A530
Megapixles: 5.0MP
Price Paid: $300 (long time ago)
Bought New/Used: New
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 4x Optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Spontaneous photography, macro, anything really. It's pretty impressive for a 'crappy' camera in today's standards. Shots are sharp, crisp and the camera is built to last. It has withstand all four seasons in Calgary, fell onto snow, ice, saltwater on the beach and it's still kickin'!

LOVE THIS CAMERA TO DEATH. :love:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_reviews/a530.html

Test shots (size decreased but it's way bigger than this):

- http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/2708901945_077a90a250_o.jpg
- http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2708901929_06e5fd89ec_o.jpg
- http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3284/2708901921_63a9dfd5cf_o.jpg

Wakalimasu
10-30-2008, 07:03 PM
Make: Canon
Model: 50d
Megapixles: 15
Price Paid: $1400
Bought New/Used: New, oct 2008
Zoom (Optical/Digital): slr
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: door stop, works great

lewdvig
12-25-2008, 02:49 PM
Make: Sony Alpha
Model: A350
Megapixles: 14
Price Paid: $500
Bought New/Used: New, Dec 2008
Zoom (Optical/Digital): dSLR with 18-70mm zoom
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7.5
What you generally use it for: family events, portraits

The Sony is burly, heavy camera despite being made of plastic.

Its Liveview works great shooting from the waist and above my head. Kind of like a rangefinder ??? The view finder is small but it does not bother me too much.

High ISO grain/noise is a not a big factor as it was on the Alpha A100, the a350 is much better. Try to stay under 800 - you need to think a bit and play with the settings in low light). A flash is mandatory, and a prime lens will get you further than the kit lens.

Speaking of lenses, the Minolta AF lenses work on the a350 and are cheap and plentiful. A 50mm F1.8 lens is about $100 and represents a very good investment.

The Sony menu system is logical and makes functions easy to find. The dedicated ISO button is useful too.

I ended up getting rid of this Sony (to a Sony fan who said he wanted this more than a Nikon or Canon). Even though the a350 is much better than the a100 it still struggled in low light.

Of the thing it has going for it, there seems to be more 'advanced' features to play with than on entry level dSLRs. Such as color space, white balance and setting AF zones (of which it has 9 vs 3 for the Nikon d60, the camera I replaced this with).

Playing around with color space is important as the Sony images seem a little washed out at the default setting.

But even with lots of fussing over settings I could not get the A350 to match the IQ of the d60 on auto. The D60 manages lower ISO (often 100 vs 400) and when you crop a photo it has more detail despite 4 million fewer pixels on the CCD.

Sony must have some software issues because the imager is the same as some high end Nikons. Perhaps a firmware update will fix the issues. Once you know they are there it gets hard to look past them. It might also be the kit lens that is the issue.

The Sony LV system is awesome and I will miss it. Its nice to snap family events without a cam stuck to your face. I alos really wanted to get some of the awesome inexpensive Minolta lenses like the beer can and 50mm 1.8 off the used market.

JTI
01-04-2009, 10:33 PM
Make: Nikon
Model: D700
Megapixles: 12.1
Price Paid: $3400
Bought New/Used: New July 08
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 50mm 1.8, 70-200mm vr 2.8, 17-55mm 2.8 DX, 10.5mm 2.8 fisheye DX, 105mm 2.8 macro.
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: Weddings

I wanted a D3 so I could say I have a D3, but the D700 is a beast too. saving $2000 was the best idea for me. I don't shoot sports or anything really high speed so a D3 would have been too much camera for my line of work. The biggest reason why I bought this camera is because it's full frame and the amazing high ISO. I am an available light shooter 80% off the time. I never ever want to use a flash inside a church and I used to fear the noise from my D200. Well not anymore. I have had weddings in pretty bad lit churches, but with my trusty D700, I can bump the ISO to 2000+, shoot hand held at 1/60 and get clean, sharp images. The battery last much longer than the other Nikons thanks to its CMOS sensor. I only need one battery for an all day wedding shoot.

It has live view as well, but I never use it or had to yet.

3D tracking is an awesome feature and yes, I use all 51 points for focusing sometimes. I actually prefer moving the focus point around, instead of locking and recomposing, so I really like having 51 focus points.

The automatic sensor cleaner is a god send. I never did like cleaning my own sensor, as it was time consuming and nerve racking.

My only complaint is the vignette you get when you shoot with the 70-200mm VR 2.8. It annoys me sometimes and wished Nikon noticed this before releasing the D700.

I love my D700 and will be buying another one later this year to replace my D300. I want to be completely full frame.

5000Audi
08-28-2009, 04:46 PM
Make: Fujifilm
Model: S2000
Megapixles: 10
Price Paid: $299
Bought New/Used: New aug 09
Zoom (Optical/Digital): pretty far lol... digital sucks tho but great optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 10
What you generally use it for: taking random pics of random things.. pretty good camera.. but makes HUGH pics once uploaded onto the computer

scenic121
08-29-2009, 09:20 PM
Originally posted by lewdvig
Make: Sony Alpha
Model: A350
Megapixles: 14
Price Paid: $500
Bought New/Used: New, Dec 2008
Zoom (Optical/Digital): dSLR with 18-70mm zoom
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 7.5
What you generally use it for: family events, portraits

The Sony is burly, heavy camera despite being made of plastic.

Its Liveview works great shooting from the waist and above my head. Kind of like a rangefinder ??? The view finder is small but it does not bother me too much.

High ISO grain/noise is a not a big factor as it was on the Alpha A100, the a350 is much better. Try to stay under 800 - you need to think a bit and play with the settings in low light). A flash is mandatory, and a prime lens will get you further than the kit lens.

Speaking of lenses, the Minolta AF lenses work on the a350 and are cheap and plentiful. A 50mm F1.8 lens is about $100 and represents a very good investment.

The Sony menu system is logical and makes functions easy to find. The dedicated ISO button is useful too.

I ended up getting rid of this Sony (to a Sony fan who said he wanted this more than a Nikon or Canon). Even though the a350 is much better than the a100 it still struggled in low light.

Of the thing it has going for it, there seems to be more 'advanced' features to play with than on entry level dSLRs. Such as color space, white balance and setting AF zones (of which it has 9 vs 3 for the Nikon d60, the camera I replaced this with).

Playing around with color space is important as the Sony images seem a little washed out at the default setting.

But even with lots of fussing over settings I could not get the A350 to match the IQ of the d60 on auto. The D60 manages lower ISO (often 100 vs 400) and when you crop a photo it has more detail despite 4 million fewer pixels on the CCD.

Sony must have some software issues because the imager is the same as some high end Nikons. Perhaps a firmware update will fix the issues. Once you know they are there it gets hard to look past them. It might also be the kit lens that is the issue.

The Sony LV system is awesome and I will miss it. Its nice to snap family events without a cam stuck to your face. I alos really wanted to get some of the awesome inexpensive Minolta lenses like the beer can and 50mm 1.8 off the used market.

I am impressed with your explanation of this camera. I have this same one for two years now. No problem so far - yes I have been using my sons old Minolta lens and they work fine. Please let me know where I could get hold of these Minolta lens and at what price.:D

95EG6P
11-05-2009, 07:32 PM
Make: Canon
Model: SD750
Megapixles: 7.1 DIGITAL ELPH
Price Paid: $299
Bought New/Used: New Dec 07
Zoom (Optical/Digital): 3x optical zoom 35-105mm (35mm equivalent) with UA lens
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9.5
What you generally use it for: Point and shoot at anything. I really like the 17 Shooting modes plus My Colors photo effects that this camera has. This was my first digital camera and I loved the 3.0-inch screen that it has. I think that's what sold me at the time.On each battery charge I can get between 300+ pics. It's light weight, very slim fits in the pocket. There is so much to learn from this camera but I think it's time to move on. I'm currently thinking of a Nikon DSLR so if anyone what's to discuss this, please PM me.

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0702/07022202canonsd750sd1000.asp

teknical
09-04-2010, 10:23 AM
Make: Canon
Model: T2i (550D)
Megapixles: 18.7MP
Price Paid: $1000
Bought New/Used: New Aug/10
Zoom (Optical/Digital): Optical
Overall Satisfaction(1-10): 9
What you generally use it for: Replaced my Powershot A80 with this badboy. So far very satisfied, although I still have alot to learn as this is my first DSLR. I'm just going through a couple links in the Photography Resource thread, and hopefully I'll get a couple pics up before the end of the month :thumbsup:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_eos550d.asp