Learn about the incredible Canon EOS Rebel XSi digital SLR!

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Whether you’re a veteran of my previous books or a new convert, I think you’ll find this introduction to the Canon EOS Rebel XSi quite different from the other books on the market. When Canon finally introduced the XSi (which was much more of an upgrade from the XTi), I realized that a compact “field guide” wouldn’t hack it for a camera, though touted as an entry-level model, was much more advanced than previous "beginner" cameras. Although many shrewd beginners will be buying the XSi as a first digital SLR, the vast majority of you will be serious amateurs – or those who aspire to join those ranks as quickly as possible.

You don’t need a book that devotes almost third of its pages to little sections that provide the rudiments of shooting the most basic types of pictures. You don’t need to be told that you ought to use a fast shutter speed when shooting sports – you probably already know a dozen different kinds of action situations when slower shutter speeds are superior (such as motor sports with spinning tires, or when panning to capture a long jumper speeding towards the pit.) There’s a good chance that telling you to use a large aperture when shooting a portraits a bit simplistic for your skill level, too. If not, don’t worry, I provide this kind of information, too. I just don’t waste dozens of pages on these basic techniques when they can be covered in a few pages before jumping into the truly cool stuff. Instead, I’m going to emphasize the exciting things you can do in the Canon EOS Rebel XSi Guide to Digital SLR Photography.

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After a couple introductory chapters that help you get your bearings with this innovative camera, we’re going to explore dSLR photography together using a significant new tool. I’ve tried to make the Canon EOS Rebel XSi Guide to Digital SLR Photography different from your other learn-up options. The roadmap sections use larger, color pictures to show you where all the buttons and dials are, and the explanations of what they do are longer and more comprehensive. Instead of the checklists devoted to general topics like “architectural photography” or “landscape photography,” you’ll find tips and techniques for using all the features of your XSi to take any kind of picture you want. The Canon EOS Rebel Guide to Digital SLR Photography is aimed at both Canon and dSLR veterans as well as newcomers to digital photography and digital SLRs. Both groups can be overwhelmed by the options the XSi offers, while underwhelmed by the explanations they receive in their user’s manual. The manuals are great if you already know what you don’t know, and you can find an answer somewhere in a booklet arranged by menu listings. I've done my best to make my book accessible, friendly, and comprehensive.

Why the Canon EOS Rebel XSi is great:

I’ve never been able to tell whether I like Canon or Nikon cameras better, so I've been using both for decades. Each brand has its advantages. But the XSi really impressed me with some special features, outstanding image quality, and great handling.

First and foremost, it's affordable, if you’re serious about photography. The XSi provides most of the features of the EOS 40D, for hundreds of dollars less. It even betters most Nikon cameras in its price class, and delivers similar high ISO performance, and image quality that more than matches that of any other 12 megapixel camera. Add in some high quality Canon EF and EF-S lenses, and you have an unbeatable combination at a bargain price.

The EOS Rebel XSi is also more expandable than any previous Canon dSLR at this price..

The Canon EOS XSi also includes tons of very cool features, such as Live View capability that allows previewing the actual image on the camera’s three-inch LCD screen before you snap a picture; an improved autofocus system with a center extra-sensitive cross-type sensors, that’s more accurate than anything this side of the Canon EOS 1D Mark III; and automatic/manual sensor cleaning.

My recommendations for Canon EOS Rebel XSi must-have essentials

(And stuff I just like):

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My guidebook, natch!	The Canon 580 EX II electronic flash	BG-E5 battery pack/vertical grip	Canon EOS Rebel XSi camera with 18-55mm IS zoom

I love The "Bigma", the 50-500 f/4-6.3 zoom from Sigma. Great image quality and the range you need for sports, wildlife, portraits.	Manfrotto Monopod I own this, and the Manfrotto carbon fiber monopod. Super for sports, landscapes, wildlife.	Already own a bunch of EF or EF-S lenses? Upgrading from a Canon EOS XTi? Buy just the XSi body and save your $$$ for more lenses!	Screen Protector Shield your big 3-inch LCD from scratching and damage.

SanDisk Extreme III 4GB Take thousands of shots on one card with this super-fast 4GB SanDisk SDHC memory card.	SanDisk Extreme III 2GB You definitely must have at least one spare memory card, and this budget-priced card doesn't sacrifice speed or reliability.	Is it possible that the sharpest lens you own can cost less than $100? This 50mm f/1.8 lens will exceed your expectations. Great for macro work, too.	Tokina 12-24mm zoom. Here's a chance to save some money on a lens that is excellent, at a lower price.

			Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM Lens Ready for one big splurge? This is one premium "L" lens that does it all. Treat yourself just once!

FAST! This Canon 50mm f1.2 is the available-light photographer's dream lens! You need this.	FAST! This Canon 85mm f/1.2 is legendary. Absolutely beautiful for portraiture!	FAST! Photojournalists and anyone looking for speed indoors will love this Canon 24mm f/1.4 lens.	FAST! Although it's a "normal" lens on the 40D, this speedy 35mm f/1.4 is excellent indoors and out.