I remember when Canon Digtal Rebel first came out it was priced over $1000 and considered the first digital SLR camera for masses. Now, a couple years later, it is still probably the cheapest digital SLR camera out there.
Dell currently has it for $382 (body only) and for $468 in a package with 18-55mm lens. Can the price possibly go any lower?
Get the body, but forget the 18-55mm lens. It’s a kit lens, you’re much better off with an upgraded lens. A good lens will most likely cost much more then the body would, but once you start taking pictures, you’ll understand why…
I don’t think I will ever buy an SLR. Not that much of a fun to carry heavy equipment around. I did buy myself a photo related gift for the holidays though. Just got the delivery notice from UPS, will pick it up tomorrow. It is not quite a frugal gadget but IMHO well worth it. I will write more about it next week.
I wonder how many people will actually get the full use out of this camera. It seems like it’s an equivalent of buying a Ford SuperDuty truck. Yes, it’s great, and yes it’s got everything you need but do you really need it? I try to ask myself this question everytime I make a purchase - perhaps it’s just another kind of “extreme savings” approach you wrote about a few months ago. And speaking on the subject - I think price will go lower. Looks like it’s a rule if you buy any electronics.
Good point, Alex. Too often we buy things because it pleases us to do so. And I am not talking budget here. Provided you have one for entertainment, it is still always good to think long-term. A good approach is to look at other things the money can buy and maximize the amount of “fun” you get from it.
Well you need it if you interested in photography.If your shooting photos all the time you might want something more than a point and shoot Alex.