I'm having Shutter problems with my Rebel XT?

Question

I have a canon EOS digital SLR Rebel XT and am having problems with the shutter. Either the shutter wont fire or it takes along time when it finally does. I have to hold the button down for a long time, and the pictures look like they're coming out slightly blue/washed out. Please help, I'm not sure if the shutter needs to be surviced or not; i'm not quite sure how many pictures i've taken in the past four years.

Answer 1

It would be very helpful if you upload some photos to http://www.flickr.com so we can see.

The only thing I can think of if the camera / lens are working properly is -- the scene is too dark, and the lens is hunting to be in focus.

If that is the case, putting the lens in MANUAL focus and there should be no delay after pressing the button at all.

Answer 2

Your shutter may very well be going out...  especially if the camera is four years old and you have used it a considerably.   There is never a promise of how long a shutter will last or exactly when it will go out... but all shutters have a life.  The XT, I have been told by Canon, should be good for an average of 65,000 clicks....   It may be time for a check-up.  Calling Canon USA repair center can help you decide whether it is the shutter or another problem.