There was a time in the not too distant past when SLR cameras were mainly for pros. But because of the Canon Rebel T3i and other models like it, the times are a-changin'.
Now, more than ever, there are photographers buying digital SLR cameras at a record pace. And one of the leaders of the pack of manufacturers is Canon. In 2003, Canon set the stage for the future with the release of the very first Canon Rebel. It was the 300D, a 6-megapixel entry level digital SLR.
And this truly was a ground breaking release, because it was the first sub-$1000 digital SLR camera.
After that, the race was on to get out the newest and best entry level camera at an affordable price. Technology has improved with each new model. Sensors improved in pixel count and noise reduction, making today's offerings so much better than the first Rebel.
Now we have the newest Rebel, the T3i. Some will argue that it is not an upgrade at all. But the contention of this writer is that the Canon Rebel T3i is indeed a great choice as a first digital SLR or even an upgrade, and I have reasons to back up this claim.
First, let's get past the fact that this is the first model in this series that has not had a larger image sensor. It is still the same 18-megapixel CMOS sensor that is in the T2i. But, and this is a big BUT, it is also the sensor that is in the higher level 60D, and it is also the sensor in the amazing 7D (although it must be noted that the 7D has dual sensors). This means that the image quality will be pretty much identical.
The image processor is also the same. Again, the promise of great image quality.
So, the hardware looks the same. What makes the new camera a worthy buy? Well, it may not be the best buy for every individual looking for a new Digital SLR, but it is certainly a great buy for you very first one, and here are three of the reasons for that contention.
Fast and Responsive - You are obviously looking for an improvement over your point and shoot camera. This is a slam-dunk. When you press the shutter on this model, you get instant photos. There is 0 shutter lag like you get on your compact camera. Perhaps you have learned to live with that lag time, but when you get this T3i in your hands, you will be rejoicing over the responsiveness. Add the improved ISO (with respect to a point and shoot), and you have a great combination.
Recording Video. Most folks are now using their cameras for video. This one has the latest and greatest in video output with full HD capabilities. But there is also something called Video Snapshot and Digital Zoom. With Video Snapshot, you can record series of short videos and the camera will put them together without any computer editing on your part. You can also use the Digital Zoom to get 3x - 10x closer without sacrificing quality. This is in addition to the zoom feature on your lens.
Scene Intelligent Auto. If you already have a Canon PowerShot, you will be familiar with Intelligent Auto. Scene Intelligent Auto is that feature on steroids. You don't have to stress about learning how to use the camera settings right out of the box. You can use Scene Intelligent Auto and the camera will choose the perfect settings for the picture it sees, and all you have to do is compose and press the shutter button. Then you can learn about the advanced features of your new digital SLR camera when you have the time and convenience of not having to get that perfect shot. This one feature has raised the comfort level of many new buyers.
There you have it... Getting your first digital SLR camera does not have to be frustrating or stressful.
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