A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
The Canon EOS Rebel XSi Digital Camera incorporates a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canon's professional SLR models, including an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14-bit A/D conversion, and an advanced Live View function. Plus the proprietary DIGIC III image processor ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded, and also manages the camera's efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance.
The 12.2 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600, while the 14-bit Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion process means the Rebel XSi camera records up to 16,384 colors per channel and allows the camera to produce images with finer and more accurate gradations of tones and colors. The camera also incorporates the Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions (previously found only on Canon's Professional Digital SLRs) and the camera is equipped with Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically to prevent underexposure with backlit scenes.
The EOS Rebel XSi is fast - capable of continuously capturing 3.5 frames per second for bursts of up to 53 images. The faster frame rates and finer focusing capabilities of the Rebel XSi together with its impressive image burst rate will help photo enthusiasts capture split second action at just the right moment. Furthermore, the camera is equipped with a host of useful creative controls, including shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000 sec. to 30 sec. plus Bulb, a choice of four metering patterns including 4% spot metering, a wide range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, depth of field preview, mirror lock and much more.
The large, 3-inch, 230,000 pixel LCD monitor makes it easier for users to review images and scroll through the menus, and also features a broadened color gamut and a wide viewing perspective in all directions. Furthermore the EOS Rebel XSi camera features Live View - which allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder - this is particularly useful when shooting at odd angles or in situations when looking through the viewfinder is impractical.
The Rebel XSi DSLR utilizes Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning system. This involves a Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit that shakes dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor, along with post processing with the supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Here the camera maps any spots that may remain on the sensor and subsequently subtracting dust spots from the final image during post processing.
In a departure from previous EOS Digital Rebel models, which accommodated CF type memory cards, the EOS Rebel XSi camera utilizes SD and SDHC memory cards including those with capacities higher than 2GB, making it the perfect upgrade for users already equipped with SD cards from point-and-shoot model cameras. In addition, it is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, as well as EX-series Speedlites, an optional Battery Grip, and remote control and viewfinder accessories. In regards to its overall design, the EOS Rebel XSi camera features a substantial yet streamlined profile, with curved edges, contoured surfaces, conveniently placed controls and comfortably constructed rubber grip and thumb rest that all contribute to fatigue-reducing hand fit. The camera body is constructed of a rugged yet lightweight combination of stainless steel and polycarbonate embedded with glass fiber, and the chassis exterior is enrobed in a durable ABS and Polycarbonate resin that is resistant to impact damage.
| Camera Type | Interchangeable Lens SLR Digital Camera |
| Image Quality | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | APS-C Size (22.2 x 14.8mm) 12.4 Megapixel Single-plate CMOS Sensor with RGB Primary Color Filter & Low-pass Filter |
| Effective Resolution | 12.2 million pixels |
| Color Depth | 14-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes | Color (sRGB, Adobe RGB) B&W (with color filter or color tone) |
| Image File Formats |
JPEG (Fine, Normal) RAW (14-bit Canon original) RAW+JPEG |
| Recorded Resolution |
Large (4272 x 2848) Medium (3088 x 2056) Small (2256 x 1504) |
| Video Recording | No |
| Audio Recording | No |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Canon EF mount |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.6x |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Compatible with Canon IS Lenses |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | TTL secondary image-registration, phase detection (9 AF points) with AF-assist Lamp (uses Built-in flash) |
| Focus Modes | One-Shot AF, AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF, Manual focusing (MF) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity |
Basic Zone modes: ISO 100-800 (set automatically) Creative Zone modes: ISO 100-1600 (in 1-stop increments) |
| Shutter Type | Electronically-controlled, focal-plane shutter |
| Shutter Speed |
30 - 1/4000 second Bulb (up to 30 seconds) |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes |
| Exposure Metering | 35-zone TTL full-aperture metering (Evaluative, Partial, Spot, Center-weighted average) with EV 1-20 Metering Range (at 73°F/23°C with EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens, ISO 100) |
| Exposure Modes | Program AE (Full Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off, Program), shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, depth-of-field AE, manual exposure, E-TTL II autoflash, Exposure Compensation (±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments), AEB (±2 stops in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments), AE Lock |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, White Fluorescent Light, Flash, Custom, White balance correction (±9 stops in full-stop increments, White balance bracketing (±3 stops in full-stop increments - Blue/amber or magenta/green direction possible) |
| Scene Modes | Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes (Auto pop-up flash) |
| Effective Flash Range | 43' (13m) @ ISO 100 |
| External Flash Connection | TTL Hot Shoe |
| External Flash Control | E-TTL II autoflash with EX Series Speedlites |
| Maximum Flash Synchronization Speed | 1/200 second |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Time | 0.2 seconds |
| Shutter Lag | 0.055 seconds |
| Time Between Shots | Less than 1 second (single mode) |
| Burst Capability | 3.5 fps up to 53 frames in JPEG |
| Self Timer | 10 seconds, 2 seconds, 10-seconds delay plus continuous shooting |
| Interval Recording | No (possible with tethered operation) |
| Date & Time Stamp | No (simultaneous recording onto image data) |
| Memory & Power | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | No | ||||||||||||||||
| Compatible Memory Cards |
Secure Digital (SD) card Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) card |
||||||||||||||||
| File Size |
|
||||||||||||||||
| Battery Type |
LP-E5 Battery Pack AA-size batteries can be used with optional BG-E5 Battery Grip |
||||||||||||||||
| Power Adapter | ACK-E5 AC Adapter Kit (optional) | ||||||||||||||||
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 High Speed |
| Direct Print Capable | Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control |
RS-60E3 Remote Switch (optional) RC-1/RC-5 Remote Controller (optional) |
| Video Output | NTSC & PAL |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows System
Macintosh System
|
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder | Eye-level pentamirror with Dioptric Adjustment Correction |
| Viewfinder Info | AF information (AF points, focus confirmation light), exposure information (shutter speed, aperture, AE lock, exposure level, ISO speed, exposure warning), flash information (flash ready, high-speed sync, FE lock, flash exposure compensation), monochrome shooting, white balance correction, maximum burst, SD memory card information |
| Depth-of-Field Preview | Yes |
| LCD Display | 3.0" TFT Color LCD (230,000 pixels) with Brightness Control (7-steps) |
| Information Display | Aperture value, AF point selection, card writing status, Exposure level indicator, Exposure compensation amount, AEB level, Drive mode, Self-timer/Remote control, Image-Recording quality, Shots remaining, Flash mode, ISO speed, White balance, Battery level, Shutter speed, Date/time, battery level warning |
| Language Options | English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Portuguese, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Greek, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Polish, Hungarian, Czech |
| Playback Options | Single image, Single image + Image-recording quality, shooting information, histogram, 4- or 9-image index, magnified view (approx. 1.5x-10x), rotated image, image jump (by 1/10/100 images, or shooting date), Highlight Alert (Overexposed highlights blink) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 3.8 x 5.1 x 2.4" (98 x 129 x 62 mm) body only |
| Weight | 16.8 oz. (475g) body only |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Thoughts after a year together
Hi y'all!
This is my first digital slr and, not knowing anything else at the time (and not having extra money to spare either), went for it instead of the ...Read complete review
Hi y'all!
This is my first digital slr and, not knowing anything else at the time (and not having extra money to spare either), went for it instead of the Nikon D90 because an additional $300 seemed excessive for the ability to take video and 3200 asa. I had 2 point and shoots before this and before those, an Olympus OM2, and have been taking and developing my own pictures since I was a child (I still am, but that's a whole 'nother story.)
The 3200 asa would've come handy several times during the past year (halloween parade in NY comes to mind), and the D90's kit lens has a wider zoom range (I think it's 17-110) and seems a better lens altogether, which is also an advantage, so the extra $300 wouldn't be wasted money, imo. I'm not into video, but that would've also come handy a couple of times in the past year.
Don't take me wrong, however. I like this camera very much and I've taken some great pictures with it.
It's very light, compared to the Nikon, especially with the kit lens. It responds fast to my needs and I very seldom miss a shot. The lcd screen is close to useless in bright sunlight (to be expected), however, live-view is extremely useful for taking long-exposure shots at night, as it allows you to make absolutely sure that focus is right.
The pictures it takes are not very sharp if you magnify them to 1:1 on the screen. I found out a couple of nights ago that this is due to the way the camera creates the jpegs. The kit lens doesn't help as it's not of the best quality, so I just purchased a Sigma F2.8 18-50mm lens. I took some test shots with both lenses of a dollar bill and the difference in sharpness at the detail level is quite noticeable. I repeat, this is at the detail level, so it might not affect or bother you AT ALL. I'm a picky guy, what can I say?
Going back to the softness of the images, the camera has a sharpness setting and if you set it to max it alleviates the problem considerably (hey, I've used it happily for a year so far, haven't I?). I also found out, from that same article about the jpeg algorithm in the XSI, that if you shoot in raw mode you won't have this problem, so if you're going to shoot bees doing their thing in flowers, and want to see their eyelashes, switch to raw. I recommend shooting in raw mode if you shoot in a low light situation as well, such as a concert.
The advantage of the kit lens is that it's much lighter and smaller, so if you aren't interested in minute details, you'll do fine with it.
Can't say much about color-reproduction other than I like the colors. I'm a guy, remember? Like most guys, I don't know about 20 different shades of red or white.
Image stabilization, something I never had before, got me spoiled and works great. The sigma lens doesn't have it, so I have to be careful now.
One thing I absolutely hate about this camera and makes me wonder what they were thinking at Canon is that in low light, the camera fires the flash a couple of times to focus. Works perfect EXCEPT that if I don't warn them, the people I'm shooting always think I'm done as soon as they see the first flash, so you can imagine what my first "posed" photos looked like - luckily, I almost never have people pose for me, I just shoot and ask later. Great technology, unbelievably idiotic implementation. This also makes it problematic to focus while using an external flash (don't know if canon flashes would assist in focus, though; mine's a very old sunpak): the camera just can't use the built-in flash to assist in focusing if you're using an external flash. The Nikon doesn't have this problem as it uses a beam of light to assist. To make things more idiotic, the xsi DOES have a lamp, but it's only used for red-eye reduction and to blink when the camera is in self-timer mode. Why they didn't choose to use this for focusing in the dark, is beyond me.
The controls are a breeze to use after you learn them (not hard) and 99% of the time, you'll be able to do everything with one hand, while you look through the view-finder (I can't remember what it was that I needed to do once that I couldn't do single-handedly). Most, if not all the information on the screen is also available in the view-finder.
Wishful thinking: interchangeable focusing screens. In low-light situations I'd rather focus manually, and a split-prism screen (like all film slr's have) would be unbelievably useful. As it is, focusing manually in the dark is nearly impossible. I know, politicians are likely to be truthful before this wish comes true, and pigs will definitely fly way before that.
Getting the pictures to the computer is easily done through a standard usb cable (kudos to canon for not going with a proprietary connector!!!!), but this is slow, so I recommend getting an SD Card reader (day and night).
The software that comes with the camera is ok. Not picassa-like in friendliness, but very adequate and usable. You can control all the settings of pictures taken in raw mode (color, brightness, etc.), and the photo-stitching software is very good (that's what's used for stitching together a bunch of images taken for a panoramic view of something, in case you're wondering).
This is a great camera. Good resolution, good images, and very easy to learn to use and adjust properly. I don't know if I'd call it an entry-level DSLR, for it's rather on the boundary between the amateur DSLR's and the professional ones.
Have fun!
Alex
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great for a while...
The EOS Rebel XSi is a great digital SLR for the beginning photographer, but as your skills and requirements expand, the XSi simply can't fit the bill.
The 12.2 megapixel sensor...Read complete review
The EOS Rebel XSi is a great digital SLR for the beginning photographer, but as your skills and requirements expand, the XSi simply can't fit the bill.
The 12.2 megapixel sensor is great, all most people will ever need when it comes to cropping and prints.
Quickly, though, you'll be envious of the expanded ISO ranges of other cameras (the XSi tops out at 1600). In addition, noise is not at all well controlled at 1600 ISO; it's a bit cleaner with noise reduction enabled, but detail is lost, and in addition, the already pretty lousy burst rate of 3.5 frames per second drops even further. It is this slow burst rate, and the lack of a wider ISO range, that really disappoint. You'll find yourself eagerly looking at newer, more expensive offerings from Canon like the EOS 7D for its 8fps burst and 12,800 ISO sensitivity. Without this expanded range, the XSi is more or less useless for low-light photography and indoor sporting events; even if you spring for über expensive glass like the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, the XSi simply can't deliver fast enough shutter speeds in low light to freeze the action.
In addition, the 9-point autofocus system in the XSi seems to leave quite a bit to be desired, especially in AI Servo (subject-following autofocus) mode. Although the system achieves accurate focus probably ninety-nine percent of the time, it takes a LONG time to get there. As if the XSi needed another reason to never be considered an action or sports camera, this is it.
The big three inch LCD on the rear of a camera is really, really nice. However, don't try framing shots using it in LiveView. And don't try using it in direct sunlight. Oh, and don't zoom in to check focus on shots you've taken. Why? Because it's not bright enough, it's a fingerprint magnet, and I'd be willing to bet money that a mirror is less reflective. In addition, it's not VGA resolution, which is why framing and focus-checking will be very challenging for you. I implore you to so much as try and come back with halfway decent results.
If you're using the camera outside, or under studio lighting, it's a dream, so long as the aforementioned slow continuous burst rate isn't an issue, of course. In addition, make sure framing shots through the viewfinder won't be a problem for you. If it is, the XSi is not for you. If you're looking for a great starter SLR for use as an introduction to macro or landscape photography, or just to take candid shots of your friends and family, the XSi is that camera. Otherwise, consider buying a cheaper SLR like the XS. Why, do you ask? So that once your experience is beyond the abilities your equipment, you'll have more available funds to buy your next digital camera body.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I bought this camera because my daughter and I had joined a photography class and needed a camera that could be used in manual mode. I was a little hesitant about buying a refurb. camera but this one arrived in like new condition. Everything worked and it takes beautiful pictures. Thanks B & H.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I love the ergonomics of this camera,..it feels as if it was custom made for my hands..
I only wish the build quality was alittle "sturdier" for the money I paid..it is all plastic..
right from the box, it is easy to get aquainted with the camera and start shooting.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I decided to finally step up from a point-and-shoot to a dSLR. I spent hours upon hours reading reviews online before making my new purchase and settled on the Canon XSi. Sure, there have been two successors released since the Canon XSi/450D, but it's a remarkable camera packed with a lot of features and an intuitive menu. For beginners, hobbyists and professionals alike, the Canon Digital Rebel XSi is a great camera that yields fantastic performance and image quality. I am beyond pleased with my purchase, and wouldn't hesitate to buy from the Canon EOS line of cameras again and again. I hope that once I better understand aperture, ISO, shutter and focus speeds, I will be on my way to taking truly inspiring and impressive shots. The only qualm I have with the camera is motion blur in low light, even when using the highest ISO setting, which maxes out at 1600. Overall, I love my new camera and I look forward to learning more about the advanced features.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I've only just entered the SLR world, so I haven't much to compare this camera too. That said, I'm very pleased with my purchase so far. I was out shooting pictures all weekend and the only troubles I ran into were due to my own blunders. The camera is very user friendly (as user friendly as these cameras can be), the shutter speed is perfectly adequate (despite some of the reviews I read prior to my purchase), it has a descent-sized LCD screen and the images seem to be of good quality. Both night shots with longer shutter speeds and a higher ISO as well as close-ups. Each are turning out to be nice and crisp. But I haven't made any large prints yet, so we'll see. Overall though, so far, so good. I'm very happy with my purchase.
I was also out taking pictures for 8 hours and the battery was still going.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
[...] the camera a Rebel xsi is a real sweet deal and a great value and camera is awsome. CS
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
The camera works very well. I like how you push the shutter button and it focus's itself. Also, I like all the options I have for the camera.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Easy to use, good pictures ... what else ?
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I have owned this camera for over a year now, and I have had excellent results. I have the kit lens, as well as a 55-250mm zoom, and the quality at 250mm is awesome. Recently took this camera to 2010 World
Series in San Francisco, sat in outfield and took great images with camera/lens.
What I like most is that you can use the "L" series lenses with the camera. Find a retailer that rents lenses, use the camera with ANY lens canon makes and experiment. The only way to learn the camera (and it's very easy), is to experiment with as many setting combinations as you can.
You will not be sorry for the purchase. I know I'm not!!!
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I've been having some problem with the shutter speeds. Sometimes when I try to take a picture the shutter speed slows down so much that the picture comes out completely blurred. I'm going to be taking it into a store to figure out whats wrong but other that, I love it! I'm a begninner so I'm still figuring out how to work it, but it does just what I need, which is why I bought it.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Bought it because im starting in photography and i went looking into diferent cameras and brands.. Nikon was Ok but difficult to access to parameters.. Canon awesome.. buttons for everything.. (at start dont know what to do.. but later they were perfect).. it is an OK camera.. great value for the money..
i didnt need video.. so why pay extra for the T2i.. this one its just fine..
i would loved if i could shot more frames per seccond.. but in "sports mode" is ok..
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I own the Canon EOS digital rebel xti and that camera was really good. The XSi is not just better, it's awesome. the quality of it is unbelieveable, simple controls, durable, the battery life can last you for a long time, for example 600 shots and i haven't switched batteries either, which is impressive, and overall it's just a fine camera. if you own a canon or want to do more with digital photography then this camera is definely for you. if you own an xs make this your next target! highly recommended
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Good Basic Kit. The body is plastic of course, which doesn't have the solid feel of my old Olympus OMs, but for the price, I'll get used to it. Good battery life. View screen scratches very easily(get a protector!). Kind of awkward to change f-stops (hold button with thumb while turning wheel with same index finger) but I'm getting used to it. Kit lens is ok, sharp only at f8, lots of distortion towards wide end color o.k. 1:3 magnification is cool. Overall a good basic kit.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
This is my first DSLR and I'm totally in love with it. I love the fact that it doesn't have video like some DSLR's, I find that a completely useless feature. This camera has everything I could ask for in starting out a career in photography, and very easy to use. Placement of buttons are perfect. When I upgrade, I will be staying with Canon!!!
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Good choice! Easy to use.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
This camera is totally automatic and as a result it is very easy to get great pictures. In addition, it is fast and I love the image stablisher.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
My only complaint is that it is noisy but I have taken many great pictures with it. It is a great beginner dslr.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I made a great buy, I recommend to a friend. I have no regrets. The camera has a great image, zoom is a wonderful quality. I believe that using it will achieve a level of good photos.
Fiz uma ótima compra, não me arrependo de jeito nenhum, eu indicaria para um amigo com certeza. A câmera tem uma ótima imagem, o zoom é de uma qualidade incrível. Acredito que com ela vou poder fazer fotos muito boas.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Pictures of kids are sooo much better quality! I love the ease of use and easy to understand features! Just need to get a bag for travel!
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
The image quality is wonderful, very little noise. Very user friendly and it is lightweight.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi SLR Digital Camera Kit (Black) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Best photo quality
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