So, I got in my new big-girl camera (Canon T1i) and have just this week been playing with it. I goofed. I ordered the camera online, thinking it came with the kit lens. And it didn’t! I got the camera and was patiently waiting for the other box to arrive, that had the lens, camera case, and some accessories. That 2nd box finally arrived and NO lens.
Uh oh! Went back online to where I had ordered from and discovered that nope, the lens didn’t come with it (I could have sworn I read ALL the fine print on this one). It was still a decent price, but I could have done better ordering the camera and lens together. I did find a good online price for the kit lens and now it is on the way. In the meantime, I had ordered another lens, the 50 mm/1.8 Canon that I had heard great things about and it got here fast, so that is what I’m playing with at the moment.
You know how you try really hard to get the best deal you can get when you’re researching something big like this? I had done that, but I think they must be running some specials for Father’s Day, cause now I’m seeing better deals than what I got. Much better! I’ll tell you about one below.
I’m loving the pics and have walked around the house taking a few snapshots to test it out. Wowza, what a difference I think.
Love the details.
This is going to be fun. I love those blurred backgrounds and this does it so easy (I think that’s called Depth of Field). 🙂
All these were taken in Program, no flash.
Can’t wait to get really good and learn what I’m doing with this thing, but it takes great pics, even on Auto or Program.
I’m determined to learn more about photography. 🙂
These are all right out of the camera with minimal Contrast applied.
So, we’ve had a cat and now Mr. Chippy getting into the bird feeder. He was so cute, we let him get up there and eat. His little cheeks were bulging by the time he hopped down and ran off.
Playing around before we went out to dinner last night. 
I’ve got SO much to learn about this camera.
We went down to Petals from the Past Saturday morning and I got a few flower shots.
I’m really pleased with how pretty the shots look with minimal effort. When I figure out what I’m doing they should be outstanding. 🙂
But, so far I’m loving the camera and I know it will be plenty for me for a long time. I thought I’d post some pics since some of you are thinking about upgrading to a DSLR too.
After I ordered my camera, I have found even better deals on the Canon T1i than I bought. Like this one here (at $579, that is a steal! 2 days ago it was $649, then went down to the price it is now since then). That link is for the camera AND kit lens and is a great price. If you’re looking for a deal right now, you might want to jump on one of these, it is less than what I paid. Let’s see how long that price lasts!
And no, I don’t get anything for that link, just wanted to pass it on. I wish I had gotten this deal! I think they must change those online prices daily, because it was more when I looked at it the day before and it’s been a month since I ordered mine.
I love love love the pictures of your home. What detail and such a feast for the eyes!
I always tell myself that I need to get better with my camera… But… not happening yet. I just point and click. =) I could be a spokeswoman for the Powershot camera – with royalties!
Again, what a lovely home.
Janelle
I think you’ve got a new career here! Those are wonderful pictues. Being able to focus on the details shows off what the camera can do. Like Janelle, I’m more of a click-and-shoot kinda girl. I read about 3 paragraphs of photo lingo, and I’m lost! Can’t wait to see all the wonderful photos you’ll be able to create.
Great shots, Rhoda!
You are going to have so much fun with this camera!
Your pics look great!! I always use the P setting on ours, whatever that is. Either that or the flash off setting. Wow, you got yours MUCH cheaper than us. *sigh*
I LOVE my DSLR. We bought a Sony Alfpha as a christmas present to ourselves in 2008 and I’ve loved getting to know its features.
DSLR’s are fantastic at picking up detail without needing the flash. My only problem is that most of my photos are taken when I’m home from work in the evening, so the natural light is beginning to fade.
Enjoy your new toy!
Congrats on the camera Rhoda. I know you will enjoy it and share lots of pictures with your blog visitors :o)
I have DSLR-phobia but SO want one – and to learn to photograph WELL as well. Perhaps you’ll motivate me. Great pics you’ve got there.
Hi Rhoda! Congratulations on your new camera! Your snaps are looking so nice. Now that pic you snapped of yourself – can I bring you to my blog and make you a Darling Daring Bathroom Beauty Snapping Diva? 🙂 It’s a fun thing. I won’t do it without your permission! I had a Bathroom Beauty Snapping party back awhile ago and had lots of gals snap!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia 😉
Hi Rhoda, I am the same as you, I bought my Canon rebel xti about 2.5 years ago and use my slim kodak mostly because I do not know how to use it..I have not gotten any other lenses than what came with..but here is a website I just found with simple help..please post if you find any help online!
hugs Barb
http://photographyminded.com/understanding-your-canon-rebel-xti
now I am guessing you can google for your model but they are probably similar?
Hi Rhoda-
I need a new camera SO BADLY. I am on the fence on which way to go – DSLR or a higher end point and shoot. Thanks for posting about your camera – I love reading about yours so far and am looking forward to reading more about your experiences with it.
My best – Diane
Rhoda, Great pictures and it looks like you are having fun with the new camera. Everytime I see your wall of art I just love it more! The birdcage in the frame…love it. Your black and white lampshade would be perfect for my office.
xo, Sherry
Hi again, Rhoda! Oh, it doesn’t matter that your snap is not in the bathroom. I’ve gotten easy in my olden age. 🙂 I will certainly come and tell you when the ‘crowning’ will be. I have several others to be crowned also! Thank you so much. I will be so honored to have our most famous Rhoda in our most special group! You’re a doll!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia 🙂
So jealous of your DSLR! I don’t know why I’ve never noticed the birdcage in the frame on the wall (I’m sure there are pics) but it looks beautiful! The color that the camera brings out is really incredible. Have fun!
Sarah
Rhoda –
I got a Nikon d90 last December and I LOVE it! I took two classes in Homewood last month at Billy Brown Photography. You can google and get his website. They were great, and I’m currently taking an online 6 week class through http://www.debbiehodge.com. It is taught by Katrina Kelley. It is SO much fun and I have learned SO much in this class! It’s only $50 for 6 weeks!! You can post as many questions as you want and she’ll answer them. Plus, you’ll see others’ questions and answers, too. A new lesson is available for download each week. It’s been great. I’m on week 4 now. Check it out. You will learn so much! Enjoy your camera!
PS – You’re right about the blurred background. That is called depth of field and you’ll also hear it referred to as bokeh.
Tammy
Wow, those photos are fabulous! Great camera, despite the lens snafu and pricing deal issues…I think you are going to get some gorgeous images with that camera! I can’t wait to see them all!
PS You look beautiful heading out to dinner!
xoxo Beth
You’re doing a great job!
Hi Rhoda! Awesome pics! I have a Canon Rebel and adore it. I just took a 4 week online course from Angie Seaman and loved it! Her info is at http://angieseamanphotography.com
I highly recommend it as I went from an Auto girl to I am doing a lot in Manual mode now! Still have a lot to learn, but really enjoyed her class and thought I would pass the info along! I am dying to take her weekend course in Florida!
I’m so wanting a digital SLR, my nice 33mm just sits in the closet wondering what it did to offend me. I so miss being able to focus in on the smaller details. When I do, I’ll also get a macro lens for my flowers. Have fun with your new toy.
I would so love to get a ‘real’ camera. The only thing I worry about is that I have a one track mind and will obsess over it to the detriment of things that really need doing like, renovations, cleaning, looking after family…