gift for newb gf

[Sp12]

300D is really getting old at this point, i wouldn't recommend one anymore

you can look on keh.com, they sell a lot of used equipment.

Definitely agree, I think an Xsi is the 'perfect' body for someone just getting into digital (ignoring Pentax, which are admittedly kind of awesome in terms of price/performance). I'd recommend a body with live-view, as a lot of people new to SLRs have adjustment issues with viewfinders (especially those found in lower end bodies).

 

[Munky]

Definitely agree, I think an Xsi is the 'perfect' body for someone just getting into digital (ignoring Pentax, which are admittedly kind of awesome in terms of price/performance). I'd recommend a body with live-view, as a lot of people new to SLRs have adjustment issues with viewfinders (especially those found in lower end bodies).

I wouldn't recommend live view on a DSLR unless you're willing to live with snail-speed focus. Might as well get a micro4/3 camera.

 

[finbarqs]

I heard that Nikon D7000 has a pretty quick and snappy Live View AF... so does the Sony cameras.... and of course, 4/3's is fast at AF in live view

 

[Sp12]

I wouldn't recommend live view on a DSLR unless you're willing to live with snail-speed focus. Might as well get a micro4/3 camera.

1. The Xsi's live-view AF is phase detect anyway.
2. That's another good option as well. You lose DoF and noise control, but it's a good option if you value portability.
3. Only Canon DSLR's have really bad contrast detect AF.

 

[finbarqs]

well.. since she's a girl who wants oustanding pics, and good convenience, and yet wants something cute, get her a fuji x100