Zexun:
I went to pennisular plaza on thursday and held both the 50D and the 450D. I pretty much liked the 50D because of its spacious gripping as the 450D was a little bit cramp for my right hand. Also, the 50D had that solid feel which i like. But i've got a question. When you hold a camera which is much heavier, will it affect your photo-taking?
I am more interested in taking landscapes, and also events(drama & sports) for my school when i join photog club next yr. can't join this yr, it's a yearly intake.
Gloriane
Will the heft of the camera affect how I use the camera? Definitely, and it's a positive thing. Now with my 400D decked out with a grip, and a flash on top, I feel much better. To me, the heavier the setup is (up to a point of course), the steadier I can hold the camera.
Sounds like you like how the 50D feels like-- go for that one then. I would say the 50D kit with 50mm f/1.8II lens (S$1880 + S$110, cost without accessories) is good.
Tell us your budget though, do you expect to just pay for the 50D alone (S$2k budget) or can you extend it further?
When you purchase your initial setup, after a while you will find some sort of limitation with your lens. Maybe it's not long enough, or maybe it's too slow (small aperture). Then, you'll buy something else to fit what you shoot.
For me, 2.6k was the initial entry cost. From then on, I spent no more than S$300 every 3 months, and if I didn't buy anything, I'll save the S$300 for the next pass, so I'll have S$600 to spend. First 3 months I bought batteries, a better strap, another CF card and my battery grip. Next 3 months I bought a 580EXII flash (S$300 from me, rest by dad). Then I bought strobist (off-camera flash) gear. And recently I sold off a laptop that I got for free, and bought myself an 85mm f/1.8 lens.
What I suggest is, if you're from a well-to-do family, save up each month and purchase the things that will suit what you shoot. Doing events in the hall / shooting family group photos / low-light? Save up and buy a 430EXII flash for S$430. Shooting sports? Save up and buy a 55-250IS for S$360. Shooting landscape? Err, Canon EF-S 10-22mm if you can afford it, if not stick to your kit lens
All the best for your search!
Cheers,
Zexun