Camera opinion's Options

[gt_driFFter]

I can't decide if I want the Canon S3 IS, or to pony up the extra $$ for the Canon Digital Rebel XT (350D). Anybody have experience with either of these? I mainly want to shoot cars, and pictures of the skyline/sunset. Please post up your opinions on either of these camera's!

*EDIT*
No longer looking at the S3, just trying to decide between the Canon Rebel XT, and XTi. Please see the 5th post in this thread!

This post has been edited by gt_driFFter: Jul 4, 2007 - 1:13 AM

[gt_driFFter]

If you buy a DSLR, you will want to buy an assortment of lenses. Just happens. XT's and XTi's are great choices. Either choice is good. Have you gone to Best Buy or somewhere and tried them out? For Canon cameras, check out www.photography-on-the.net

I *think* I will be satisfied with the 18-55mm Zoom Lens at first, at least until I get used to the camera and most of the settings. I work at best buy and have played around with both camera's since I started this thread in sep of '06

What do you look for in a camera?

The 2mp difference you won't notice.

Do you want portable? DSLRs are large and clunky. Lens' can get very heavy.

Do you like using the LCD view finder? DSLRs require you to use the eye piece. The LCD is for settings and picture review.

Look at the pros and cons of each camera. I had a Canon S50 before my XTi and I loved it, but it was a helluva lot more portable.

I want a camera to shoot high quality pictures of cars, motorcycles, scenery, and skies. I'm looking to make this one of my main hobbies, as I have always been fascinated by photography. I'll probably even take a college class or two, just to get acquainted.

I figured I probably wouldn't notice the 2mp, unless I was making posters or something huge.

Portability is not a requirement for me, since the only times I'll really be using it is when I'm going to intentionally go out to take pictures.

I realize the LCD screen is soley for review and settings, and I am fine with that. I'm also fine with using the eyepiece.

Really, I want the XTi just because I don't want to spend $700 and still say "oh man, I wish I would've spent a little more for the XTi".

On ebay I can get the XTi and a couple other accessories (4gb card, tripod) for about what I can get the XT, and and extended warranty. Normally I don't buy warranties but the fact that it covers accidental damage for 4 years is kind of nice. The other nice thing about buying from bestbuy is that I work there, so if I ever have a problem, I know I'll get taken care of, and I won't have to ship anything out, or deal with people over the phone.

So basically it's:

Get an Xti with a couple goodies, but deal with usual risks of buying off ebay
or

get an xt, with a warranty, from a local place where I have no doubts about getting taken care of.

Anybody have any experiences from buying off ebay?

Thanks,
Josh