Canon 50D as first DSLR?

[beauford77]

Hey everyone,

I'm a new member here, first post on these forums. I've been thinking about upgrading from a point-and-shoot to a DSLR for about 12 months now, but haven't taken the jump yet due to other financial commitments etc always coming up. Have been looking into it a lot more these past couple of weeks, gone into the store and had a look at the Nikon D90, Canon 550D and 50D. After shopping around, I've come across what seems a pretty good deal - new Canon 50D + 18-55mm IS lens for the equivalent of $US860 (i've been told by numerous camera houses they're being discontinued, perhaps a 60D is on its way?).

Anyhow, i've gone through the forums and read opinions on the 50D, gone through the pros and cons etc. My question is, do you think it's a camera that would be fine to learn the basics of DSLR photography on, or would it prove too difficult considering its extensive feature set? One of the major considerations for me is buying a camera body which I don't feel like I have to replace after 12 months because i've got my head around things and want to upgrade..

Any opinions on the 50D for a first-time DSLR user, or even other camera suggestions in a similar price range would be great!

[GadgetRick]

That is a crazy good deal assuming it's on a new 50D and not a used one. Still not a horrible deal if it's used as long as it doesn't have too many shutter actuations.

Every camera will be discontinued at some point. Not worth trying to chase the next best thing, you'll keep chasing...

As to whether this is a good beginner camera or not, well, that depends on you. Any camera can be fine for a beginner if you're willing to learn to use it. You'll still be learning the basics just like you'd learn them on any other camera. I have a 50D and I don't see a problem with you learning on it. Just because it's a more, "advanced," camera doesn't mean you won't be able to use it. Actually, you won't realize how much easier it is to switch settings on a camera like this than on other lower-end cameras.

I love my 50D. There are better bodies out there but it does a kick-butt job.

[bombo]

Hi,

I also have a 50D, and i also have read that it is going out of the canon-program. It is a good camera, and available at a very good price now. I dont see any reason why it would not be a good choice for a first DSLR. All of these camera's are complicated at first sight, but if your interested in photography, you will learn how to use it along with photographing technics. There is a lot f information on this site, and there are good books to find also.

The 50D is probably also the last of the better canon-camera's that has no HD recording possibility wich i ( but that strictly personal ) rather have not on a photo camera.

Greetz..
Bombo

[beauford77]

Thanks for your feedback above. I went to the camera store today and got a brand new Canon 50D + 18-55mm IS lens + 3 year warranty + UV filter + 8gb CF memory card for $US930. I was very happy with the deal, hopefully this camera (and this website) will help me slowly find my way in the world of DSLR photography...lots to learn!

[guyzer09]

The 50D is a great camera and often overlooked because of the models after it that included HD video. If all you want to do is stills the 50D holds its own along with the newer cameras just dont forget that the glass you put infront of it makes the biggest difference.