Budget Canon Digital Rebel XT Setup

After 6 years with the same 1.3MP camera, I finally gave in and jumped on the DSLR bandwagon and picked up a Canon Digital Rebel XT.

I have to admit, this thing shoots some really great photos. If I had to choose a second career, I think I’d opt to be a professional photographer. I could shoot weddings and extract loads of cash from unsuspecting newlyweds - or - maybe go on safaris and shoot photos for National Geographic.

Ok - well I can dream right? Well, at least my equipment isn’t holding me back. Keep in mind that I’m budget oriented (ok, a cheapass) so I make sure what I’m buying is really worth the money. If you’re a “budget-oriented” photographer as well, you may be interested in what I got.

CURRENT CAMERA GEAR



	Canon Digital Rebel XT I have the black body with the kit lens (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6). The kit lens is really not that bad as some people say. It works well enough.
	Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens The lowest priced (cheapest) L-lens that Canon makes. And it’s a winner. Not only do you feel like a pro holding the white L glass, it also shoots some great photos.
	Bogen - Manfrotto 3001-Pro Tripod Nice sturdy tripod. Light enough to carry around by not light enough to blow over in the wind, smashing your camera and lens into the ground, resulting in an outburst of curse words.
	Bogen - Manfrotto Compact Ball Head Nice and inexpensive ball head with a sturdy quick release too, so you can connect and disconnect your camera from your tripod with ease. Supports up to 13 lbs too - more than enough for even the largest of lenses.
	Tamrac 5575 Expedition 5 SLR Photo Backpack Backpack is the perfect size for me and very well thought out. It’ll easily fit your SLR along with 4-5 lenses and all your accessories. You can also attach your tripod via some straps on the outside.
	Canon Wireless Remote Control RC1 A wireless remote for the Canon Digital Rebel XT. Great for night time/low light shots where any camera movement will give you fuzzy pictures. (or maybe for those times you want to take pictures of yourself and nobody else is around)
	Canon 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens It’s around 70 bucks and probably one of the greatest deals out there. It’s a fast lens - perfect for low-light and indoor photography.

MY WISH LIST



	Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens Ok - this is one lens I will probably never get. The price is almost as much as the XT and the 70-200MM L lens combined. But hell, this is a wish list right? This would seem to be great as a walkaround lens (24-105mm) and you get the L lens clarity and sharpness.
	Canon Speedlite 580EX Flash I’m going to need an external flash at some point. This one seems to have a lot of nice features, such as a stand so you can place it on the other side of the room and blind people as a practical joke.

And if you’re interested, check out this Canon Digital Rebel XT Tutorial available online.