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 | 42-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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Most Liked Positive Review
Great camera--still learning, having fun
After many years, I finally made the break from film and went digital. I tried out several DSLR cameras in stores and found the XSi to be the most intuitive and user-friendly. I purchased...Read complete review
After many years, I finally made the break from film and went digital. I tried out several DSLR cameras in stores and found the XSi to be the most intuitive and user-friendly. I purchased the camera through B&H and I'm pleased with my decision.
There are a lot of features that I haven't mastered (some I haven't even tried) but I've been able to get out and take some great shots already. The camera is light, easy to use, and lots of fun. I've used several of the different automatic settings and am working to learn which I need to use when. I primarily have shot pictures out at the stables where there are varying light conditions between the arena, trails, and barn.
I especially enjoy being able to quickly shoot pictures in rapid succession even when using the single-shot mode. No more winding film and missing the moment. The easy-to-use, adjustable ISO is also a plus.
The built-in flash is generally fine for snapshot type pictures but I can already see the need to buy a separate flash for more technical shots.
The post-processing software, while not as powerful as Photoshop, is useful for beginners in post-processing or those who just want a quick cleanup of their photos.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Overall good, but beware of a few issues
This is a solid camera, but I have had a few issues with image quality, for instance the sensor tends to blow out highlights very easily. Usually when shooting any scene with a sky...Read complete review
This is a solid camera, but I have had a few issues with image quality, for instance the sensor tends to blow out highlights very easily. Usually when shooting any scene with a sky in it you have to underexpose by a stop or two. This seems true regardless of f/stop or shutter speed Any exposure longer than a second will start to show considerable noise, even using ISO 100 and a tripod. The body is a little to small for me, when holding vertically your pinky tends to hang off the end and feels a bit funny. Great entry level DSLR,more advanced users should seek elsewhere.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I received the EOS Rebel XSi (450D) from my wife as an anniversary gift. It is my first digital SLR, finally making the move from my EOS A2E. I'm beyond impressed... shutter speed, features, construction, battery life, all outstanding. The A2E was a (and still is) a very advanced camera with many features that that I never played with because it was just too expensive with traditional film... such as continuous shooting... I'm having a blast using these with the Rebel XSi. I also popped my old lens on this camera, which is nice because the zoom capacity actually gets multiplied by 1.6 giving me some extra capability. So far, I have shot portraits, landscape, macro, and sporting events with spectacular results.
The only thing that took some getting used to is the body is more compact than the A2E. At first, I thought it was a real drawback, but now I have come to really like the slightly smaller body and the fact that it is a little lighter.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
The instructions were very clear and the opportunity to try different settings makes this a great camera for the family phototgrapher.
No cons at this point.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
As a novice SLR user, this is a great camera fro someone who was concerned that they might be intimidated by the technology. It's so easy to set in auto and take good pictures, and then you can begin to play around with the other special options and with manual settings.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I had to replace my Rebel XTI that disappeared under mysterious circumstance and didn't hesitate to choose the current Canon equivalent. I have always liked how Canon's cameras operate and the pictures they produce and this camera is no exception. I'm debating whether I should have opted for a more advanced lens but so far this camera has been just what I need to capture family photos.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I bought this camera in order to capture those special moments of my kids many activities. Now I am able to get great action shots of them swimming, playing soccer, baseball, dance recital or just having fun around the house. I can't wait to use this camera on vacation. Though the camera is certainly bigger than my little point and shoot digital the quality of the photos and not having to take in to account that pause with the point and shoot I don't mind the size at all, especially because it is so light. I highly recommend this camera. I purchased the bigger zoom lens and would highly recommend that as well to complete your package and picture taking capabilities.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I finally made the switch to digital and this camera makes it easy. Easy to use and full of features. Has everything needed to take great photos!
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I use it for a lot of action photography and so far I am very happy with the results. It is nice and light and I can hold it with one hand for extended periods quite easily. Image quality is very good for the price. Only cons I can think of is it can be a bit noisy when trying to shoot candidly and navigating functions can be a bit slow. Overall, I am very pleased with this camera.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I am partial to Canon products anyways. I upgraded my old SLR (which was a Canon) to the XSi. Best move I made. Love the large LCD and all the features. I use it to photograph my kids in their sports. Parents really love the photos I take for them. Have a few parents looking into upgrading to this camera as well! No complaints about this camera.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Definitely love this camera. I've been holding out on buying a digital SLR for the recent Canon releases because I have a Canon EOS Elan II with a bevy of lenses and wanted to be able to reuse as much of the arsenal as possible. I take a mix of landscapes and portraits, and it has performed beautifully for both. Super fast bootup and great continuous shooting. Sometimes will pull an incorrect AF point, but it's very easy to lock and recompose shots. Very few negatives other than the grip is a little small for my hands. A side bonus is that it is fully backwards compatible with my remote shutter release that I bought for my EOS Elan more than 10 years ago.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
This product was my first serious investment. A good one at that. I had never previously owned a camera of such caliber. 12.2 mega pixels was more a dream than a reality. I use this camera to keep my favorite memories forever vivid. I can take an image and make it my own with a few clicks and adjustments. Every picture I take is always perfect. I take pictures ranging from scenery all the way to detailed pictures of underestimated potential. It is simply amazing. I love it. It is so easy to use considering I'm a first time starter. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I've been using my camera for about three weeks now. I rec'd it as a Christmas present and love it. I had a Canon AE-1 since 1977 and was very use to the features of my AE-1. Since I've purchased a couple of cheaper point and shoot digital camera and though I had what I wanted until I took them to Disney and road the safari ride and found the recycle speed of the cameras way to slow. I would miss pictures I wanted. Now with my Canon EOS XSi I don't have to worry about it. It can keep up with my pictures with out a problem. I enjoy the auto focus as well as the anti-vibration/stabilization features to reduce the shake you can get when taking a photo. With the auto settings as well as manual, I can do about anything I would want. Plus my wife can use it in full auto mode without having to do anything but point and shoot.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I bought this to replace my old point and shoot and I love it. It is very easy to use even for me.I still haven't learned all the different stuff that it will do but I haven't had any trouble finding or changing the setting that I'm familiar with. Great for first time dslr users.It is louder than my old point and shoot but I think that is probably the same with all dslr's.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I use this camera almost daily, I like the LCD best of all! The construction seems to be very well made. It is not so heavy, and the stabilizer works very well. I like the AF and have learned the manual focus as well. Although I am new with this brand, I am enjoying it and the transfer of my pictures and the good support to help me.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I'm a college student, studying architectural design. Good photography is a must for me. This camera has functioned perfectly. It is as good as any 35mm camera I ever used (combined, with a built in dark room). A clear choice over the comparable Nikon D60 or D80, and certainly the less than adequate D40. I cannot foresee a need for me to ever change cameras from the Rebel XSI.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
This camera is perfect for the traveler. For those lightweight travelers who think a full toothbrush is overkill, this camera is for you. I backpack as much as I can and know the importance of going lightweight, this camera is right on.
Takes great pictures and viewing them on the 3" display is a plus when a computer isn't around. No, it doesn't have all the features of a professional camera, but it does the job well enough to capture the sights you want to take with you.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I am a casual photographer who loves to take pictures of my kids. Easy to use and great picture quality. The sports mode is great for children's sports activities and I appreciate the easy to use no-flash mode for indoor sports events where flash photography is prohibited.
Pros
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Best Uses
Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
After many years, I finally made the break from film and went digital. I tried out several DSLR cameras in stores and found the XSi to be the most intuitive and user-friendly. I purchased the camera through B&H and I'm pleased with my decision.
There are a lot of features that I haven't mastered (some I haven't even tried) but I've been able to get out and take some great shots already. The camera is light, easy to use, and lots of fun. I've used several of the different automatic settings and am working to learn which I need to use when. I primarily have shot pictures out at the stables where there are varying light conditions between the arena, trails, and barn.
I especially enjoy being able to quickly shoot pictures in rapid succession even when using the single-shot mode. No more winding film and missing the moment. The easy-to-use, adjustable ISO is also a plus.
The built-in flash is generally fine for snapshot type pictures but I can already see the need to buy a separate flash for more technical shots.
The post-processing software, while not as powerful as Photoshop, is useful for beginners in post-processing or those who just want a quick cleanup of their photos.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
A great introductory camera. I've learned more about photography in the first month of owning this camera than I have my entire life. I take the camera everywhere I go, looking for the next great photo.
The best thing about the camera is the easy settings which allow you to seamlessly move from being able to shoot action photos to night images. It's manual, aperature, and other modes allows you as a user to create your own images and experiment.
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Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
Product was great everything that I expected and more. This is my first DSLR and it is very easy to use. Don't like that the live view won't work in the auto modes. Although it might and I just haven't figured out how to work it yet. works great in manual modes though. Would recommend the vertical battery grip especially if you have large hands makes it much easier to hold.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EOS Rebel XSi (a.k.a. 450D) SLR Digital Camera Kit (Silver) with 18-55mm IS Lens:
I've been using my camera for about three weeks now. I rec'd it as a Christmas present and love it. I had a Canon AE-1 since 1977 and was very use to the features of my AE-1. Since I've purchased a couple of cheaper point and shoot digital camera and though I had what I wanted until I took them to Disney and road the safari ride and found the recycle speed of the cameras way to slow. I would miss pictures I wanted. Now with my Canon EOS XSi I don't have to worry about it. It can keep up with my pictures with out a problem. I enjoy the auto focus as well as the anti-vibration/stabilization features to reduce the shake you can get when taking a photo. With the auto settings as well as manual, I can do about anything I would want. Plus my wife can use it in full auto mode without having to do anything but point and shoot.
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