A few people have asked what type of camera we use… right now, we both share a Canon Rebel. But while we were in Costa Rica, just as I was photographing a man–who was shaving ice for a dessert for Ashley–the trusty Rebel took a last shot. And then it was dead.
After briefly panicking, I switched over to our old point-and-shoot, which we had fortunately brought with us for its underwater housing. After arriving at our hotel, I took the camera apart and put it back together again (a few times over) and somehow got it to work. It’s been fine since then. But now we’re debating a new camera versus a camera repair. (Who knows when it will fail again?!) Why does everything have to be so expensive? Thank goodness the lenses are transferable…
{Taking pictures in Italy, 2005}
(First image by Hannah)
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
Oh, no, I know exactly what you mean. If you guys are looking for a new dSLR, the 7D is expensive but worth looking into. For me and my needs, it's every bit as awesome as the Mark II. Canon also has a top line of point and shoot cameras, the G Series, that I also think functions as well as a dSLR for most users.
I really want the Rebel – I am up for a new camera and that's the one I asked for for my upcoming B-day. I am pretty amateur at photography (I'm talking bad lighting, heads cut off, etc..) though but I'd like to get better and need a camera that can grow with me. I'm glad to hear it has served you well – I'm nervous about making the right choice.
PS – how in the world does the lighting always look so fantastic in all of your pictures? All of mine are always grainy and badly lit. Is there something I am doing wrong or maybe because the old camera I had was cheap-o?
Viv- Thanks for the tips, the 7D does look pretty awesome!
JM Hunter- so nice of you to say as we put a lot of thought into the photos we post. Having a camera with a good zoom and a large lens really does help you. We both also took classes in photography–me in highschool, her in college–though we approach our images very differently. I tend to be more technical while Ashley has a great eye. Since some jerk stole your camera, now seems like a prime time to upgrade! I agree with Viv that the G series or a rebel would could be great. If you go for the rebel consider buying a good lens too. It will work with all your next slr cameras as well. One to two year old cameras are usually almost as good but with a great discount (to spend on the lens!). Thanks again!
Do you happen to know a good online resource for older model cameras? I am also not afraid to buy a gently used camera if it is in good condition! The guy who owns the camera shop in my neighborhood went to school with my mom, so I'm going to try to talk him into a sweet deal, but just in case…
You can find the best prices in the ads in the back of a photo magazine. Usually Adorama, B&H, 17th street photo, and Abes of Maine. You could get, for instance a refurbished T1i, for a few hundred dollars less. Or go for something older and save even more. If you buy refurbished, just get a MACK warranty and your covered. Especially if your coming from a point and shoot, I think you'll get the most bang for your buck with an older camera and a non-kit lens. The lens you can use for your next camera and it will last longer than the digital technology will stay current. The Canon EF 24-85mm and Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM are a great deal now refurbished on adorama (again-I'd buy a mack warranty). That said, an older camera with a kit lens is still going to be a huge step up. Good luck!
Thanks, Aron! I really appreciate the advice! I am going to check it out. We are traveling to the Colorado Rockies soon and I want to find a camera and actually learn how to use it before we go. I have never owned a camera that I understood how to use, which is probably why my pictures are always so terrible. I think I am going to do what you guys did and take some classes. Your photos of the ACE Hotel were amazing! I would like to be able to take pictures on that level at some point in my life. If your pictures are better, does that make the memories better too! I think so!
I've been using the 5D mk2 for a while now and that thing is sexy!!! the hd video is da bomb.
however, i've been looking at the s90 point and shoot because i tend to get tired of lugging around a big setup. i love the idea of a point and shoot that fits nicely in your pocket, can shoot in manual mode, Av, Tv, P, etc, AND … it shoots RAW.
P.S. why the underwater? do you dive? if so we have lots to discuss…
Matt, we're both big divers/snorkelers. Basically anytime we are someplace tropical we get underwater someway or the other. We used to dive in CA too when we lived there, but back on the east the coastal waters are less appealing. Where do you like to dive?
underwater photography is my passion. i usually seek out the larger critters like sharks. i've spent loats of tie at cocos and have also been to socorro and the bahamas. my last trip was chasing tiger sharks in the northern bahamas. good times.
Thanks for the advice on my blog! The comments here are helpful as well