My interest in purchasing a digital SLR has been re-sparked in recent times ie. since yesterday. Actually I lie. It was probably when my DSC-T1 died and I saw Kev’s recent Japan pics (taken with a Nikon D80).

Well yesterday I picked up my DSC-T1 from LCE Services in Lane Cove - they’re an authorised Sony repairer. I had hoped to have taken the camera to Atlanta with me but it didn’t happen. Anyways now my DSC-T1’s got a new lease on life, and for only $66 so I’m happy : )

Back to the DSLR models - I’m still looking at buying one before I move to Toronto in October. I intend on taking some serious images when I’m abroad.

So I’m considering the Canon 400D right now. A professional photographer advised a friend to look at the 30D instead of the 400D. So naturally I did some research.

Basically, from what I gather, here’s the difference:

30D
- Better build = more robust
- Bigger grip which makes it easier to hold when a medium or large zoom lens is mounted
- 5 fps compared to the 400D’s 3 fps (better for sports/action photography)
- Able to attach wireless file transfer option

400D is 10mpx compared to 30D’s 8mpx but that’s negligible and I’m not planning on doing large prints anyway. (so not really a consideration for me)

Price is definitely a factor… (based on this site)

Canon 30D Standard Kit
Price: $1849.00 AUD

Canon 400D Standard Kit
Price: $1248.00 AUD

Further opinion here, here and here.

I’m also looking at getting trained on how to use the DSLR after purchase. A friend mentioned 1 on 1 tuition to me last night, which seems worthwhile. Of course it would definitely be cheaper if I simply downloaded tutorials off the web - it’d just take longer that’s all to find, then read and apply the good stuff. We’ll see how it goes.