Choosing a Canon EOS, which one gives the best value, 1000D, 450D, 40D?

[heyjoe73]

Hello All

I've been looking at purchasing a DSLR camera for about 6 months now, and if its ok, I'd like to pick your brains for a few moments regarding camera choice.

I've done lots of reading about different makes, been to a few stores handled the merchandise, and had the chance to use it, so I know what I'm looking for- a Canon, its the one that is most comfortable in my hand. As I'm totally new to DSLR's I'm going to have to learn a menu system no matter what.

I've decided to use the stock lens and nothing else until I progress and have become more educated about my needs.

Living in Northumberland, I'm looking mainly to photograph Landscapes- albeit doing the usual family shots too. I'd also like to try some HDR and light trails photography, I have photoshop for processing.

Budget wise, my financial advisor is ok with me spending £500 (at some point in the next 6 onths or so she said).

If you have got this far, I admire your patience, now the question.
What canon should I buy- do I go for a 450D,which I know I like, which I can get new on ebay for £420, or a new 1000D, or something older like a 40D.

How do these cameras compare with each other? Also, is there anywhere I can compare these cameras, or find out if I have missed any alternatives.

Once I've decided then it'll be time to start saving, go buy the thing, and then the fun really begins.

Thanks in advance

Joe

[OsmosisStudios]

None of those: A 550D or 600D would be best value.

[dlambert]

Start with the reviews on DPReview - these will give you a good sense for the capabilities of each of these cameras. Next, visit a store and hold some cameras to see whehter you like the smaller, lighter feel of the 450D (the 550D and 600D are going to be similar) or the heavier 40D (similar to the 50D). If you can't find a 50D to hold, try the 7D, since the 60D is noticeably smaller than the 40D and 50D. Out of all these bodies, I think I'd skip the 1000D - this was really a step backwards to let Canon hit a lower price point with a DSLR.

Personally, I appreciate the additional features of the 40D vs. the 450D (top-panel LCD, control wheel, higher FPS, etc.). Both are good cameras, though.

[RichardTaylor]

On your budget (and Jessops prices) I would be looking at a 500D mainly because you are purchasing a brand new camera instead of possibly a second hand one.

The 450D is a good camera (my sister owns one) and if you can get one with not much use that would be ok.

The 40D is a step up again in build quality, and easier to use, however just be careful on how much it has been used if you find one. Mine has done 110,000 shots, at least.

[mcguireuk]

Personnally I would recommend the 450D. I bought one on ebay last august for £360. (Snapped a bargain) I haven't looked back. I was like you, new to DSLR's and wanted to start small. Not spend to much money just incase the passion for photography died out. However I love this camera. I can't put it down. I think it's a great little starter camera until you get used to working with DSLR's and step out of the auto modes.

As is the case with photography its not the camera thats takes the image but the user of the cameras. Plus you can always upgrade later if you want to...