Canon T1i

I have always appreciated photography - but never had the patience for film - or low quality point and shoots. As a result my first camera was a DSLR. (The Canon Rebel XTI) The image quality, ease of use, and range of functionality - all at a consumer price point still excites me. The pain of my current gear depreciating is dulled (how convenient) by my excitement for the what the next generation brings. Just 6 months ago I was drooling over the new video functionality on the 5D. I thought I was being overly optimistic in hoping that this would be available at the rebel price point in a couple of years. Luckily the day I upgraded to the Rebel XSI - Canon announced the T1i and I was able to return the XSI without hassle.

The T1i of course leaves us longing for more. The lack of external mic input - Come on you cant be serious. Text book example of when the Marketing department has too much control over product development. Ridiculous...The disrespect - thats what hurts the most.

However, when I stop and think, and LOOK at what it can do - I am truly amazed. Its hard to say if Nikon or some other brand with overtake the lead - but for the time being the T1i is clearly the best buy available for an entry level DSLR. Somehow amazon is able to sell these at cost ($809 w/kit lens & free shipping).

Here is a great example of how technology like this is totally leveling the playing field:

Funny Tv Promo CANON T1i from Christian Flook on Vimeo.

That whole video was shot on a T1i. The ability to shoot something with such high production quality at a small price is truly amazing. Do watch on vimeo to appreciate the full HD quality. Its also important to realize that technology cannot replace skill and technique. To get output like that requires a lot of experience and creativity.

I have had the camera for a few months and still find myself forgetting that I can take such high quality video. After taking a number of cool stills of my brothers dog jumping off our boat - it kind of dawned on me - Oh yeah - lets get video of this!!

Leonards Leap from Nathan Grahek on Vimeo.

I think Canon themselves underestimated the demand for a DSLR with video. (And how quickly this demand would grow) My expectations for the next generation is going to be very high - and I cant wait to see what they deliver.

If you hadn't noticed already I also love vimeo. I have yet to find a better site for online video. The download speed and HD quality is unmatched.