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As many of you already know, I've been contemplating an upgrade with my camera by stepping up to a Digital SLR. So of course, I've been doing a lot of research for the past couple of weeks to try and find one that was a) good quality and would give me the freedom to experiment more with manual settings, and b) not too expensive. 

I searched and searched, reading like a MILLION reviews, and finally found one that I think will give me everything I want and need in a camera right now. 

And this would be the perfect time to fork out the money for a new camera because I can use part of my tax refund - yahoo! I very rarely spend money on "extra" stuff for myself, but this is something I feel would be a good investment in my photography growth, teaching me new skills. Yup, it's time for an upgrade.

Here it is.

A Canon EOS Rebel T5...


Isn't she a beauty? And you would not believe the great DEAL I found on Amazon (which includes a Deluxe Accessory Kit Bundle) on sale for $399.00.

Here are a few online sample photographs taken with this camera:



Thanks everyone. And have a great Monday!
X


45 comments:

  1. Absolutely PERFECT choice Ron!! Canon...you cannot go wrong!! I stand by Canon exclusively for cameras!! I love my little point and shoot that I got about a zillion years ago that still takes AWESOME pictures!! I just cannot see myself handling a DSLR...it's way too complicated and I'd get all mixed up! I use my iphone for all of my photo needs...I have SO many different apps that upgrade the camera...it is awesome! I cannot wait to see what you can do with this new camera! Congratulations!! This will be such an exciting experience for you!! Good luck...I am positive you will be thrilled with it!! xo Jeanne

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  2. I have only heard good reports about Canon so you should be in for a treat when you get yours. I think your photos are good now so I can't wait to see if they improve when you start using the new camera.


    I don't get much out of my camera these days, mostly due to home circumstances and not getting out much. I often curse the fact but if I'm honest I think I've become lazy and just stick to the phone camera. Gone are the days when walking the dog provided photo opportunities. Actually I would do better if I went back to a point-and-shoot, something I could put in the pocket and have available at all times. That's something I can't do with the Nikon that was bought for me a couple of years back, about which I feel extremely guilty.


    Have a great day and week, my friend x

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  3. Ron, we had a Canon Rebel and really liked it. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with any Canon camera.

    Looking forward to all your photos in the future! Have a wonderful week!

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  4. Ron, I don't own a camera because I used my iPhone to take all my pictures Lol. But I know that Canon is a reputable brand so I don't think you can go wrong, especially at that price! It's beautiful! I hope you get this camera because you deserve it. You take such great photographs so consider it an investment in your craft! Looking forward to all the awesome pictures you'll be taking!


    Have a wonderful week, Ron x

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  5. I don't know much about DSLR cameras because my husband and I either use our point and shoot or cell phone. But at that price and brand, how can you go wrong? You have such a passion and natural talent for photography so I think this would be a wise investment. I'm excited for you!


    Can't wait to see your future photographs!

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  6. Hello there Jeanne!

    "I stand by Canon exclusively for cameras!! I love my little point and shoot that I got about a zillion years ago that still takes AWESOME pictures!!"

    I agree, Canon is an excellent brand. I presently own a Canon Powershot and I've been very happy with it. So I think it's time I stepped up to using a Digital SLR because I'm really interesting in learning more about manual photography.

    "I use my iphone for all of my photo needs...I have SO many different apps that upgrade the camera...it is awesome!"



    The picture quality I keep seeing with the use of an iPhone/Smartphone is very impressive, so I can see WHY many people enjoy using them.


    I'm 99 1/2% sure I'm going to purchase this new camera!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a terrific week!
    X to you and the girlz

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  7. Good morning Valerie!

    "I have only heard good reports about Canon so you should be in for a treat when you get yours."

    Yes, Canon is an excellent brand! I purchased a Powershot about two years ago and have been very pleased with it. But I think it's time for me to upgrade and practice my skills with manual settings. I can also shoot in RAW mode with this Rebel, which I've been dying to try.

    "Actually I would do better if I went back to a point-and-shoot, something I could put in the pocket and have available at all times. That's something I can't do with the Nikon that was bought for me a couple of years back..."



    No doubt, a point and shoot is much more convenient when it comes to portability. I will most likely keep my Powershot for times when I just want to go out and take quick photographs.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Have a fabulous day and week!
    X to you and Joe

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  8. "...we had a Canon Rebel and really liked it. Honestly, I don't think you can go wrong with any Canon camera."


    That's GREAT to hear! I've read quite a few blog posts on them over the past couple of weeks and they were nothing but raves. I think it will be the perfect camera in stepping up from a point and shoot.


    I can't wait to try it out!


    Thanks so much for your feedback, my friend. Have a super week!

    X

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  9. Hola Denise!

    "I don't own a camera because I used my iPhone to take all my pictures Lol."



    Yes, a lot of people do and I can totally see why. They're small, very portable, and the picture quality is GREAT!


    My present camera is a Canon Powershot and I've been very pleased with it. I would like to stay within the same brand because many of the features in this Rebel are similar with my other camera. I'm almost positive I will be purchasing it and I can't wait! I know, isn't the price faaaabulous?


    Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. Have wonderful Monday and week!
    X

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  10. Hey the Elaine!

    "But at that price and brand, how can you go wrong?"



    I know, isn't the price awesome? And I love that it includes an accessory bundle kit, which also includes a camera bag and memory card!


    I'm pretty sure I'll be purchasing this camera sometime this week and I can't wait :)


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a super week!
    X

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  11. Hey, Ron, I know next to nothing about cameras, but I have to say that this one looks like a real gem. I'm so glad you're upgrading your equipment so you can learn some new skills. That's the key to a happy life!


    I'm looking forward to some great photos from you, buddy!


    Hope your week is suitable for framing!

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  12. Ron, you put so much time and effort into your photography so this would be such a wise money investment. Beautiful camera at an outstanding price! I can't wait to see what you accomplish with this new camera!


    Go for it, dude. You deserve it!

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  13. Ron, I think this looks like the perfect choice! It's a GREAT deal -- and you know, you're worth it! -- and Canon is a great name. Obviously, there will be some less-than-stellar reviews (shoot, some of those folks probably couldn't open a paper sack without problems!); I wouldn't stress too much over that. You're ready for a new learning adventure, and I think you should GO with it!

    We're all waiting eagerly for you to show us some Spring photos taken with this beauty. Yep, you should treat yo'self!!

    Happy Monday to you!

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  14. That's a great buy - I know a few photographers who love the Rebel...I've got my eye on a Canon SX60...

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  15. Awesome photos! Isn't it fun having a new camera? I look forward to many more your photos.

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  16. Ron, I think you're going to LOVE it!!! YES, buy! I have a Canon PowerShot pocket camera and the bigger S5IS. Neither of them owe me a penny. Not that I'm great fixing the settings on either one of them, ha, but on days I think I'm a photographer the Canons have been great to use. I think professionals would say that if you've thought about it, researched different ones, and found that this model checks your boxes you are good to go. Can't beat the name or the price! Looking forward to seeing more photos.

    Hope you have a wonderful week! Happy St. Patrick's Day tomorrow, don't forget to wear GREEN!!!

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  17. Ron, as so many others have shared, you can't go wrong with the brand or the price! I've been reading your blog for years now and have no doubt in my mind that you will make the most of this new camera, developing even more photography skills. You'll also get much enjoyment out of it, so I say, BUY IT!


    I can't wait to see your photographs in upcoming posts using this new camera!

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  18. Hey there Rob!

    Can you believe the DEAL on this camera? I've been slowly looking for an upgrade over the past several weeks, and when I spotted this one on Amazon, I knew it was meant to be. I was almost going to get a different Canon model that I saw on Staples website for a great price, but then found out that they discontinued it and was a little bummed. But it all worked out for the best because this model is less expensive yet has even more features.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Have a SUPER week!

    X

    P.S. "Hope your week is suitable for framing!"



    HA! loved that!

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  19. Hiya Matt!


    Thank you for your encouraging and supportive words :)


    I agree, this would be a wise money investment on something that would teach me more about photography. It's time I upgraded.


    Have an excellent week, buddy, and thanks so much for stopping by!
    X

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  20. Hello there Debbie!

    Isn't it a GREAT deal!?! I checked other websites, but Amazon has the best price which included a bundle.

    "Obviously, there will be some less-than-stellar reviews (shoot, some of those folks probably couldn't open a paper sack without problems!); I wouldn't stress too much over that."

    You're absolutely right about that. There will always be some less-than-stellar reviews. But I have to say, most of the reviews I read on this camera were extremely positive, so that's why I've decided to purchase it.

    "You're ready for a new learning adventure, and I think you should GO with it!"

    Yes, I am ready for a new learning adventure :)

    "Spring photos taken with this beauty."



    Can't wait!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Happy Monday and week!


    X

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  21. Hiya Grace!

    Can you believe the price!?! And most of the reviews I read gave this Rebel FIVE stars.

    "I've got my eye on a Canon SX60..."



    Oooooo.....I Googled that camera before I left this comment to see what it looked like. VERY nice!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a fantastic week!
    X

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  22. Hey there Suzi!

    "Isn't it fun having a new camera?"



    Yes, and I can't wait to get it and try it out! It'll be just in time for Spring and taking flower photos!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a terrific week!
    X

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  23. Helloooooooo Mary!

    " I think you're going to LOVE it!!! YES, buy! I have a Canon PowerShot pocket camera and the bigger S5IS. Neither of them owe me a penny."

    Good to hear that! I think I knew you had a Canon camera but wasn't sure which model. Canon's are great camera's, aren't they?

    " I think professionals would say that if you've thought about it, researched different ones, and found that this model checks your boxes you are good to go. Can't beat the name or the price!"



    Thanks for sharing that! Yup...it's time for an upgrade and this one seems like it would be perfect for where I'm at with photography and learning more.


    Have a faaabulous week, my friend. Happy St. Patrick's Day tomorrow!


    Cheers!
    X

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  24. Hey ho Robert!


    Thank you, buddy :) And you're right, I will get a ton of enjoyment out of this camera and learn so more about photography.


    I can't wait to get it so that I can start taking pictures!


    *doing the happy dance*


    Have a fantabulous week and thanks so much for stopping by!


    X

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  25. get it. i've always been a fan of canon even though i shoot with olympus. i like their cameras for compactness and the colors out of camera are excellent. i still keep one canon camera though and just two lenses. my camera doesn't have as many features of yours, not even video, but it's fine for when i want to keep it simple. the rebel series is great though, so get it and have fun with it. love your blog colors, two of my favorite.

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  26. Hellooooo Val!

    Thank you so much for your feedback; not only on this post but also in your email.

    "i've always been a fan of canon even though i shoot with olympus. i like their cameras for compactness and the colors out of camera are excellent."

    I know you have several cameras, but wasn't sure if had a Canon, so that's good to hear.

    " the rebel series is great though, so get it and have fun with it."

    Will do, my friend! And I can't wait to start taking pictures with it!

    And thanks, this is the first blog template that I have ever purchased. I got it from a designer on Etsy. She has some really nice templates too. I was so ready to back to a simple black and white design.

    Have a super week, girl!
    X

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  27. http://ladyfi.wordpress.comTuesday, March 17, 2015

    I love my Canon 500D! And I've heard good things about the Rebel.

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  28. Ron, I shared this post with a guy I work with who knows a lot about photography and he wanted me to tell you that the camera you're thinking about getting is a good one. And at that price, buy it.

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  29. Denise, thanks so much for stopping back to let know what he said. Yup, I'm going to buy it :)

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  30. Fiona, I've always wondered what brand and model of camera you use, so thanks for letting me know! And thanks for your feedback about the Rebel :)


    Have a super week, my friend!
    X

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  31. I say DO IT! You will not regret buying a digital SLR. I am a Nikon girl and have a Nikon D90 and Nikon D7100 (started with a Nikon D3000). I don't regret a SINGLE purchase. Not the cameras or lenses. And I will say if you invest time in learning the manual you will get a WHOLE lot more out of that camera. Auto is great, but manual unleashes the creative beast. The biggest difference will be size and weight. The DSLR's are heavier, but a rapid fire strap or something similar is a good investment too. SO HAPPY to see you spending $$ on YOU and the thing you LOVE. You deserve it!!

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  32. Angelia, I can't thank you ENOUGH for your professional feedback!

    " And I will say if you invest time in learning the manual you will get a WHOLE lot more out of that camera. Auto is great, but manual unleashes the creative beast."

    Yes, and that's exactly what I'm planning to do with this new camera. My current camera does have a manual mode, but it's limited. I can't wait to dig into a DSLR and lean new stuff!

    "The DSLR's are heavier, but a rapid fire strap or something similar is a good investment too."

    I will look into that, thanks for letting me know.

    Hope you're having a super week, my friend. Much thanks for stopping by!
    X

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  33. Yes, yes and YES! I had an earlier Rebel and loved it. I'd love to have this camera. You can't go wrong with a Canon. I think the two of you will be very happy together! ;-)

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  34. I've heard some good things about that model of Canon camera Ron. Sounds like you've done your homework, good for you! The time to check out all the details is BEFORE you buy, it helps to avoid so many problems and disappointments later, when it comes to a major purchase.


    When I stepped up to DSLR, I went with a Fujji S4200. It's been an OK choice but ya know, I still miss my little Nikon coolpix point and shoot. I can't imagine your photos getting even better but I'm guessing you'll make that happen now too! You go Ron!!!!


    Happy St. Paddy's Day, G

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  35. Thanks so much for your feedback, Lisa! And knowing how much knowledge you have in cameras, that really makes me know I'm making a good choice!

    I currently have a Canon Powershot and love it, but it's time for an upgrade so that I can experiment more.

    Hope you had a great day, my friend. Thanks for stopping by!
    X

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  36. Helloooooo there Geraldine!

    "The time to check out all the details is BEFORE you buy, it helps to avoid so many problems and disappointments later, when it comes to a major purchase."

    I agree, so that's why I try to do a lot research on reviews to get some feedback before I purchase I high ticket item.

    "I still miss my little Nikon coolpix point and shoot."



    I still have my Nikon Coolpix that was my first digital camera I ever purchased. I love that camera because it takes GREAT pictures for being a point and shoot.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Happy St. Patrick's Day!

    X

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  37. Sounds good. I have Canon (not SLR) that I like quite a bit. My only complaint about it is that it uses four batteries instead of the two my Sony Cybershot uses.

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  38. "My only complaint about it is that it uses four batteries instead of the two my Sony Cybershot uses."

    WOW...that's a lot of batteries. I also have another Canon (Powershot) and it only takes two batteries. This new camera will only have one battery that I can charge when it loses power. I've never had a camera like that before.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a great rest of your week!

    X

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  39. Did you buy it yet? LOL. Looks like a super deal and folks who own Canon's swear by them. I can't believe the prices on cameras with DSLR lately.
    I 'd struggle with the battery deal though. I have my Fujifilm that takes everyday batteries so I don't have to wait around for charging etc..too many times himself has lost photo opportunities cuz his battery died and the other was on the charger. I like that I can pocket some batteries and go all day long.
    I wouldn't give that up. I know--I'm weird! LOL

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  40. Hiya Mel!

    No, I didn't buy it yet because Friday night I found an even better deal (which included a tripod) at Best Buy. And on top of that, I can use my $100.00 gift card on it. I'll be getting it tomorrow.

    "I 'd struggle with the battery deal though."

    I know, I've thought about that same thing because all my other cameras use regular batteries. So what I'm going to do with this new DSLR is buy an additional battery to carry as a backup.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you're weekend was grand!
    X

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  41. OMG Ron... I just went through this. Which one which one!!! I asked so many people... got great ideas... It was killing me! I finally decided on a Nikon... just because of the price at Costco and of course reviews... but it was a real close call with that and the Canon. I had a Canon before and I LOVED it. The Nikon is heavy. BOTH are excellent brands... you can't go wrong with Canon in any way AND I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR NEW PICTURES OMG!!!!!!!!

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  42. Katherine, I have always wondered what kind of camera you use because I love your photos! I too had a Nikon at one time (and loved it), but then switched to a Canon with my last one. I agree, I think both are excellent brands.


    I should be getting my camera this week. Can't wait to start taking pictures with it.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing you feedback, my friend!


    X

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  43. Ron, I have a couple of strong opinions about photography...


    Cameras:
    There is a unyielding truth about cameras, If a person isn't blessed with a "good eye" to instinctively know what will make a good photo, no camera in the world will help them.



    Manual Settings:
    Manual settings can be fun, and they can do some things for you. But, believe it or not, most of today's cameras can, and do make better decisions on their own, than the person taking the photo, will ever learn to do. MANY people spend thousands of dollars on their camera and rarely, or never take it off of auto.


    Many Photographers are Elitists and said all of the following, and more:
    You MUST develop your own photos. Gone...
    You must not switch to auto-focus film cameras. Gone...
    You must not switch to digital. Gone...
    You must not use a P&S camera. Gone...


    I guess what I'm saying, is this... You are a creative person, you will do just fine with this camera, or any brand name camera that you choose.

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