The Digital Rebel XTi is a great, entry level DSLR, for anyone who is curious about the benefits of working with an SLR, anyone who wishes to make the jump from a non-SLR, such as a Canon Powershot, or anyone looking for the ultimate snapshot machine. This is the finest consumer-end camera Canon makes, probably the best made by any manufacturer, but it is the first in the lineup and should be considered a basic tool (Fig 3.1).
FIG 3.1
The XTi features both Basic and Creative Zones on the Mode Dial, a built-in, pop up, flash and a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor. Even with the 1.6 conversion factor of the smaller sensor, it’s quite sharp, and with clean and accurate color that’s easy to judge (although not critically) on its 1.8 inch LCD monitor.
One major physical difference between the XTi and other Canon DSLRs is the lack of a Quick Control Dial on the XTi. Instead, the Rebel uses four Cross-Keys which toggle between selected images but also control ISO, White Balance selection, Metering Modes (there is no Spot meter mode on the Rebel), and the One Shot, AI Focus and AI Servo Auto Focus (AF) Modes (FIG 3.2).
FIG 3.2
Even with its designation as a consumer camera, make no mistake about this machine’s EOS title. You will get the benefit of simultaneous RAW and jpeg file capture, Picture Styles, electronically controlled shutter speeds from 30-1/4000 second, and an ISO range of 100-1600. Additionally, you can use any of the EF or EF-S lenses on this machine.
I really enjoy shooting this camera, and I have to say that I’m more impressed with it than I thought I would be. As a professional, I’m used to high-end gear and all the performance that comes with it. Even so, this lightweight DSLR is a wonderful machine for the money, especially when shooting RAW, Large jpeg, or both at the same time. I like to have this camera nearby, for everyday family or friend events, just because it’s so easy to use and so predictably brilliant (FIGs 3.3-3.5).
FIG 3.3
FIG 3.4
FIG 3.5
Take this as only my advice, but I think that if you’re embarking on a professional career, or a film-based pro looking to get into digital photography, the Rebel may not be a camera for you simply because it looks like a consumer machine. I know I might sound arrogant, but I’m talking image here, and image, the look that you present to your clients as you work a job, is as important to your success as the pictures you produce for them to buy. In straight-talking other words, buy equipment that accents your professional image, not gear that a bride’s uncle is likely to bring to the event (or that your client may own).
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