what's your opinion on these packages?

Question

http://www.expresscameras.com/prodetails.asp?prodid=920598&up=919974&start=1
http://www.expresscameras.com/prodetails.asp?prodid=920607&up=919974&start=1

Answer 1

Before you buy, check this site:

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Express_Cameras

I notice that they do NOT list the battery or charger with the camera. These items are included in the box from Canon. They do offer a battery for $149 and a charger for $299. There's your price difference. Not to mention, a genuine Canon battery costs $50 and a genuine Canon charger costs $40, if they were not included in the kit.

The lens choices are kind of weird for a digital camera, too. A 24 mm lens (the 24-85) would be a 38 mm equivalent and this is fine, as long as you don't think you are getting a wide angle lens. Digital cameras usually start out with something like an 18-55 lens, which would work out to a film equivalent of 29-88 or almost exactly the same as the film lens that they are undoubtedly trying to unload in this package. At least the second package has a more useful lens, but please read a few user reviews at that resellerratings site I mentioned above.

Answer 2

I would be skeptical. First off, I am considering buying that camera.. so I have looked at it at B&H, Ritz, Adorama. I know what the body alone sales for. And the L series lenses well I have a couple of those too and they are by no means cheap. It just looks too good to be true. Like someone else pointed out, it doesn't look like they are listing everything that comes in the box normally with the camera. There is usually always a catch to these things. Otherwise I would be all over the professional kit!

Answer 3

First, read a review of the camera in one of the photography magazines. They will tell you exactly what comes in the box. If a seller doesn't include everything that should be in the box then you're getting ripped off.

Second, consider buying the camera from a real camera store - a store that only sells cameras, not 10,001 other things and cameras - in your area. Then you'll have a real live person to ask questions of face to face. Some stores even give you an hour or so of actual instruction with your new camera. Try getting that on-line.

Answer 4

Looks good. Then you'll need to spend money on some good lenses, $300-1200.