Worth it to upgrade?

[mnealtx 0]

I currently have a Canon Powershot S1 IS (3.2 MP, 10x optical zoom, image stabilization). I take mostly landscape and around-the-dz type of pictures.

I use the 'auto' function and let the camera do all the work. I haven't messed with Aperture or Shutter speed modes.

The PX just got in the Canon Rebel XT with the 18-55mm lens for $950. I've done some looking around on the intarweb and the price is comparable to what I could buy and ship the camera for online.

Is it worth it to upgrade, or should I stick with my current camera and learn how to use it better?

Regardless of the upgrade or not decision, can anyone suggest an online primer on using the shutter and aperture modes? All I know about them at this point is that I would set one parameter (say, aperture) and the camera sets the other (shutter speed). But, how do I know if I've made a good setting?

Mike
I love you, Shannon and Jim.
POPS 9708 , SCR 14706

[Deuce 1]

Yeah, get it.

The thing with digital is the instant feedback. Go experiment like mad with all the settings and learn was sucks and doesn't. Then you can delete the files. It's not like film where you go out and experiment with 10 rolls of 36 exposure film, have it processed $$$$ and find out what works and doesn't.

PX is tax-free? Heck, without shipping costs that looks like a pretty good deal. Plus you can post more pictures here!

[mnealtx 0]

Appreciate the reply, Deuce!

I've seen reviews saying the lens isn't that great, but hell, it's still going to be better quality than the one I have.

I've been turning it over in my mind over the course of the day. I *know* I'm going to get one eventually, and would have to learn how the different modes effect *THAT* camera... it's just spending that much at a chunk... I'm never good about spending on myself...

Mike
I love you, Shannon and Jim.
POPS 9708 , SCR 14706

[vdschoor 0]

Mike,

if your current camera is still doing its job, stick with it.
The one that you have right now from a functionality standpoint is almost an SLR, the only thing missing is the interchangeable lenses.
Learn how to use it more first, all the principles of photography with an SLR can be used on your camera from what I can tell.

Of course... the Rebel XT is a nicer, faster, higher resolution camera.. so if that's what you want. go for it..

[skysurfcam 0]

Deuce is right, you'l love it.

Don't sweat the reviews from the lens pureists. The kit lens (especially the newer one), is great for someone new to DSLR's. It's sooo much faster than the point press, w a i t, click that digital compacts give.

If you cant help yourself later there's lotsa lenses that will give you reason to re-visit the PX, but you'll be adding to your arsenal, rather than replacing the whole weapon.

C.

Brother Wayward's rule of the day...
"Never ever ever go skydiving without going parachuting immediately afterwards."
100% PURE ADRENALENS

[mr2mk1g 10]

If you're shooting on manual the XT gives you very little more. If you're learning you can learn an awful lot with the camera you have. Do that. By the time you've learnt a shit load from that the XT will be cheaper still.

Then upgrade... it is certainly worth it if you can use it... but for just a nicer lens and 5 more megapixels running on auto... I probably wouldn't bother with the extra weight/bulk and keep my grand.

[mnealtx 0]

Thanks for the replies, everyone!

Well.... I dood it.

Went to the PX and plunked down my money. Spent about 10 minutes playing with the display model, getting a feel for where the controls are and for the lens (it's a type II, btw).

Due to it's bigger size, it's more comfortable in my hands than the S1 - I don't constantly feel like I'm going to drop it!

I'll be taking some play around shots and see how they turn out....wish me luck!

If anyone has suggestions for an intermediate zoom lens, say up to about 300mm or so, I'd love to hear them!

Mike
I love you, Shannon and Jim.
POPS 9708 , SCR 14706