Question a Day: Canon 450D?

Q: natashababyyy asked:

I’m about to get a Canon EOS 450D just in time for the impending arrival of my Little Man. Is this a worthwhile choice and should I be able to pick up the basic techniques with this particular model?

A: HI!

He’s on his way so soon now! Every day, closer than the one before!

A few things about your question, now. Are you buying pre-owned or brand new? I ask because it swings the deal in a few directions.

The Canon 450D was brought out in early 2008, which in technology years, can make it a bit older and therefore a little less snazzy than it’s siblings down the line.

I’ve compared it for you with the Rebel T1i and T2i, both I feel comparable products with things to consider.

The T1i is from 2009 whereas the T2i is from 2010. I’ve mentioned before that, to me, the T1i is still a valuable investment within the two.

Both the T1i and T2i shoot movies, whereas the 450D does not. Something to consider with a new baby, for sure, as it minimizes the amount of tech equipment you need at your finger tips for all those amazing “honey, grab the camera” moments.

Further, the 450D’s ISO stops at 1,600 where the T1i boosts to 3,200 and the T2i all the way to 6,400. Now, will you be going that high? I wouldn’t advise it anyway, but rather fiddle with your other settings and the environmental light, but again, something to consider.

The 450D’s megapixel count comes in at around 12, with the T1i at about 15 and the T2i at about 18. The T1i shoots about 10% slower than the 450D when measuring frames per second, whereas the T2i shoots 10% faster than the 450D on the same count.

But the biggest factor is cost. New, I’m finding the 450D at around the $550 (Canadian) mark, the T1i at $750 and the T2i at $950. With such obvious $200 stepping stones, it all comes down to what the best camera you can afford is. It might be a better investment for you to go with a more inexpensive model and invest in a better lens. Or you might think you will outgrow the one faster than the other, and opt to upgrade straight out of the gate.

So, what am I saying? I’ve said on this blog before that the T1i is a fine choice, and to use that extra dosh to invest in lenses and gear. That said, however, the 450D is going to capture your lil’ man just wonderfully! It’s its job, after all!

In terms of the settings, they’re all going to be the same. And, the faster you can get acquainted with your camera before Button’s arrival, the better! This just means you won’t miss a thing! Start in auto mode to read the camera’s mind, so to speak, and then slowly work your way through mastering program, shutter and aperture priority modes. Soon enough, manual will come quite naturally after all that practice.

xo, Tamara