Is this a ripoff or a good deal?

Question

Canon REBEL XT 8.0 MP W/28-90MM

Includes Canon Lens EF 28-90 mm, f/4.0-5.6 for 421.00.

Is this deal a ripoff? Or is it a good deal for someone who is just starting out in the digital photography world?

Do you think this one would be good to get with the lens? ( I know this is not the standard lens that comes with the camera, but will it do for photography of pets and nature and scenery?)

Or should I possibly get the Nikon D40 with the standard 18-55 mm lens?

HELP!

NOTE: I am getting this from a certified dealer. I am just wondering if the lens that comes with the camera is a ripoff since it isn’t the standard lens that usually comes with the camera…

The total for the camera is going to be 421.00 and that includes shipping and taxes. Is this camera better than the Nikon D40?

I feel like the D40 is really outdated IMO, but I will get it if it is a better camera.

Answer 1

It's simply a Digital Rebel XT body with a different lens. If you say and have made sure that the dealer is reputable then there's nothing to worry about.

The lens that comes with this kit, as you've mentioned, is not stock. It looks like a budget lens that may have been a kit lens for one of Canon's EOS film SLRs at one point. The 28-90mm focal length range is not common for digital photography since it roughly translates into a 45-144mm equivalent lens. Not only that but it's pretty slow as well. It should work for taking pet photos but may not work so well for scenery or nature(?).

I don't know where you got the idea that the D40 is outdated. The XT is over a year older than the D40. If the number of megapixels is what got you then you may want to brush up on cameras 101 before you buy one. If it were between the XT with the off-kit lens and the D40 kit I'd recommend the D40.

Compare the two side-by-side here:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_...

Answer 2

If you read the link to Ken Rockwell's site, you will see that the D40 is one of the best entry level cameras around ... and at a very reasonable price.

This "certified dealer" has a name I hope ... while it may not be a ripoff, it may not be the right lens for you.

Bottom line is this ... no matter what camera you eventually buy, it is the user that controls it ... the camera does not automatically take professional photos, it is only a tool.

Answer 3

Hard to say without knowing the retailer's name. I would recommend that you go to this site, and check out what other buyers have to say about the retailer:

http://www.resellerratings.com/

If they are not providing the standard kit lens, it just may be a grey market product. So make sure to check what sort of warranty is being offered with the product.

On the D40: I have one. Manufacturers are always releasing new models. So whichever camera you buy would not be the cutting edge 6 months down the road. My suggestion would to look at the D40 and figure out what limitations it has for your needs. That will tell you if it is the right camera for you or not.

Answer 4

Does the camera and lens come with a USA warranty? What else do you have to buy to get for that price like extra battery, extended warranty? Is it over the counter or online buying? You have to consider these hidden extras because these are the tricks sellers use to snag you.