Which One Should I Buy: Canon 60D? T2i? or 7D?

by Chris Gampat on 08/27/2010

Photographers everywhere that want to upgrade their equipment have been extremely confused about whether to upgrade to the Canon 60D, T2i, or the 7DDSLRs. Since I’ve reviewed the 7D and T2i and had hands-on time with the 60D, here are some pointers.

(Update 4/2/2011) We have added in the full Canon T3i review as well as sections of our Canon 60D review.

Complete Reviews

60D

This posting links over to Dan Havlik’s report for the PDN Gear Guide on the 60D. I shot the camera side-by-side with him.

Day 1- First analysis

Day 2- Shooting motorcycles

Day 3- Photographing life.

To Capture Life- A posting I wrote for BHInsights.com.

T2i

The Complete T2i Review

Day 1: Spent trying to get accustomed and used to the camera as well as citing observations.

Day 2: Tested out while at a party and get-together. All photos shot in RAW mode.

Day 3: Used while exploring Long Island, New York. People that use this camera will surely use it for sightseeing purposes.

On the set of a Podcast: The T2i performed wonderfully on the set of a video podcast for NerdBlerp.com

Recommended Items for the Camera: Those of you that are looking to purchase the camera may perhaps want to take a look at my essential items guide.

Used to shoot photos for the reviews I did over at 2D-x.com here and here.

7D

The Complete 7D Review

Night 1- The camera and two prime lenses documented a Jewish Seder during the week of Passover. It performed very well and users of this camera may be asked to actually join a family at dinner and document the happenings as they progress throughout the night.

Day 2- The 7D and 24-105mm F4 L IS went to the giant pillow fight in Union Square. While the FPS kept up, the autofocus couldn’t quite capture the quickly moving combatants at varying distances and at such as fast speed too. But it did withstand the punishment of elbows, heads, shoulders and pillows knocking it about.  When the autofocus did work correctly, it captured some wonderful images. If you’re getting into a warzone like this, perhaps you’re better off with a 1D Mk IV.

With the Sun Sniper Camera Strap- This strap has replaced the Canon strap on my 7D as it typically holds my longer lenses during events and it’s also the camera I go to when I need to quickly capture something. Along with the 5D Mk II, I’ve run into nothing that the combined two can’t tackle.

Day 3- Testing at a get-together of NYC gaming journalists at a bar. Autofocus was fine in the dim light and mostly stagnant people. As was the high ISO ability shooting at ISO 3200 and above. All photos were shot in JPEG for truly showing the noise levels.

On the Set of a Podcast- The 7D performed much better in terms of manipulation vs the T2i. Noise levels in movie mode seemed to be the same.

T3i

The Complete T3i Review

Analysis upon release

Day 1- Getting a feel for the camera.

Day 2- testing the camera’s creative filters. While they make great prints, I didn’t care much for them to be honest. The reason for this is because I prefer the process of stepping into the digital darkroom and creating the art myself.

Day 3- street photography at night using the high ISO settings. The results were really quite good.

Day 4- shooting portraits using a casual approach to capture candid emotions. Afterward I used Lightroom 3 to tweak the image quality.

Day 5- Event shooting, portraits with wireless flash control, and more night scenes.

Quick Video Test

Comparison (And why you’re all probably confused, according to Canon’s website)

Weight

T2i- 18.7 oz. (530g)

60D- 755g / 26.6 oz

7D- 900 grams – 31 ounces

The T2i is rightfully the lightest due to the construction of the body, which is all plastic. The 60D has aluminum/polycarbonate/glass/plastic resin body is while the 7D has a magnesium alloy body. The latter is built for much rougher and tougher work that professionals will run into.

High ISO

From my review:

“Users of the T2iwill be very, very pleased with the High ISO abilities in this camera. Able to shoot up to ISO 6400, the files are still very usable and post-processing will take care of most of the image noise problems. If not, editors can always get creative in their editing to use the image noise to their advantage as the files still do retain a lot of detail.

If coupled with the 430 EX II and shooting in extremely dimly lit conditions, one can shoot with ease at ISO 800 and still get very crispy shots while shooting handheld. This will come in handy if users happen to be shooting a party.

As a side note, this is all best done while shooting in RAW mode. Otherwise, the image noise will be harder to eliminate in JPEG mode.

Further, get rid of your kit lens. Shoot with something like a 50mm F1.8 II, 85mm F1.8 II or 24-105mm F4 L IS. And if shooting video, get a Rode Videomic if you need better sound.”

The high ISO abilities of the 60Dshould be noted to be similar to those of the T2i because of the single DIGIC 4 processor but the same amount of megapixels.

If you really want great high ISO images, you should go for the 7D. The 7Dis only a bit behind the 5D Mk IIwhich is a big feat.

The Canon T3i is on par with the Canon T2i, but in my tests I saw very slightly better color in the T3i. The 60D’s high ISOs seemed to be better than the T3i’s, but still not on par with the 7D.

Shooting Speed

T2i- 3.7fps

60D- 5.3fps

7D- 8fps

Figure out your needs: If you’re shooting casually, go for a T2i. If you’re shooting a bit more seriously with the probable intention of sales, go for the 60D. If you’re shooting professionally, you should go get the 7D.

Once again, this is regards to shooting speed performance. The T2ican shoot images more than well enough for something like events. Its autofocus is a different story.

The T3i and the T2i are essentially the same still.

Autofocus

Simply put:

T2i- older AF system

60D- older AF system with slight tweaks but still performs like a Rebel. Actually, it’s better, especially with L glass and other lenses that we recommend.

7D- totally new one. One of the best I’ve used.

T3i- just like the T2i.

If you’re a user that plans to manually focus at times or always use the center AF point and wants something more affordable, get the T2i. If you want that same autofocus system but want higher FPS shooting, get the 60D.

The 7Dwas designed to take out the Nikon D300s, a camera with an extremely good autofocus system. Hands down, this one is the best of the three.

With Flashes

T2i- No wireless flash control

60D- Wireless flash control

7D- Wireless flash control

T3i- Wireless flash control finally comes to the Rebel series in the form of EasyWireless, Custom, and Manual flash control modes.

If you plan on using your camera and pointing the flash towards the ceiling the entire time, get the T2i. Any flash above the 430 EX II will also boost the AF performance. The 60Dis a much cheaper alternative to the 7D. Granted, as we’ve seen with the 7D SV, the camera can be tailored to studio work.

There are a large segment of people out there that say, “I don’t want to shoot with a flash.” If you’re one of those, go buy a T2i.

Ergonomics

T2i- Awkward construction. All plastic body, changing settings is a bit more cumbersome.

60D- More professionally oriented. More solid body as well. The rotating LCD screen is a must for video capabilities. Best DSLR I’ve ever used for street photography.

7D- Best construction and button layout. My 7Dhas taken quite a bit of punishment already.

T3i- Minor quirks make this camera best used in aperture priority for when you need to take photos quickly.

If you’re shooting casually or rarely run into any rough occasions, go for the T2i. If you’re shooting loads of video, go for the 60D. If you’re shooting professionally and need a workhorse, get the 7D.

Menus

The menus for all the cameras are essentially the same. You won’t really find any major differences except for autofocus performance tweaks in the 7D and the filters in the 60D.

Extra Features

T2i- none, really.

60D- Special mode selector, wireless flash control, art filters, articulating LCD screen.

7D- Wireless flash control, higher shooting FPS.

T3i- creative filters, wireless flash control, crop movie mode.

If you’re more of a hobbyist, clearly go for the 60D. If you need professional results, get the 7D.

Movie Mode

They’re truthfully all the same. Don’t bother. If you’re primarily shooting movies though, the 60Dis better for ergonomics and the 7D is better for image quality. The reasons for these are the articulating LCD and the dual DIGIC 4 processors, accordingly.

Where to Purchase

Canon 7D: Amazonor B&H

Canon 60D: Amazonor B&H

Canon T2i: Amazonor B&H

Canon T3i: Amazon or B&H.

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Tagged as: 60d, 60D vs 7D, 7d, best camera, canon, reviews, t2i, which one to buy

  • http://www.beyondordinaryblog.net Candice Cossel

    None of the above. Pro photographers love the 5D Mark II and you NEED full frame!!!!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      LOL!

      As a 5D Mk II owner, I do love it. The images are magical.

      • http://caseymknox.wordpress.com caseymknox

        I just bought a 60D and LOVE it. I upgraded from a Rebel Xti so imagine how I feel. My flickr- http://flickr.com/caseyknox check it in a few weeks to see the newness :)

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Hi Casey,

          Thanks for the input, we appreciate it. Mind elaborating a bit more please? What do you love about it?

          Also if you want to buy Canon gear in the future, please use our links.

          • Miss_maghalseh

            Hello Chris ,

            thanks alot for all your information , it’s really nice and comforting to find someone with all this honesty and information to ask :) … well I’m a Cinematic Art gradguate and I want to buy a Camera but confused between 7D and T2i .. the thing is that I like the quality of T2i alot and as a footage I like it more than 7D actually but I don’t know what is more helpful and satisfying for me as I don’t want to buy a camera and regret later after discovering that there is one would have been better for me .. mostly I like to shoot documenteries , and Video Art mostly expressionist things .. so I need something more Artistic .. what do you think I should bring T2i or 7D or maybe 60 D would be better for me ? and yeah what lenses do you recommend for Artistic shots as well ?

            thanks alot

            • Anonymous

              Hey,

              Thanks for stopping by. You know, as I was reading what you were saying, I thought to myself, “Maybe you should get the 60D.” And then you brought that up yourself. The 60D is perhaps the best Canon DSLR for video there is right now. It allows more manual controls, a great build quality, and all the ergonomical advantages of a camcorder that you’d need. Also consider a Beachtek adapter for external sound, a Rode VideoMic, and some prime lenses. The Sigma 30mm F1.4, Canon 50mm F1.8 and Canon 85mm F1.8 would be great choices. Otherwise, you can go for the 17-55mm F2.8 IS.

              I hope this helps. When you make a purchase, please use my links and banners to help support the site.

    • francisco santos

      Okay heres a music video I shot using both a canon t2i and 7d. I dare you to tell me which shots are 7d and which are t2i. As far as I am concerned the 7d is going to be for sale very shortly to grab a couple more t2is ;) Great review! Bottom line is learn the camera and iso/apt/fstop and picture styles youll be more than fine.

      • http://dallassterling.com Dallas Sterling

        I own both the T2i and the 7D (and the 5D MKII and D300) and I will admit it’s near impossible on the web to tell the difference in your video… however, your video was shot under conditions that would not reveal the differences. I found that the T2i performed very badly compared to the 7D in dimly lit situations (even at low ISOs) and showed a sort of crosshatching in the toe. The 7D has a far more even and noise free image in low light, probably because of the dual processors. I would seriously suggest borrowing and testing someone else’s T2i before buying one… like me, I think you’ll end up picking up the 7D anyway.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Agreed.

      • http://superiormediagroup.net frank

        I agree Dallas. The 60d and 7d provide less noise in low light situations. However Not everything is in low light situations.

    • arnaouty

      any body knows any thing about 600 D ? and which is better 550D or 600D

  • Mike

    The 5D is nice, but not everyone can afford to spend $2500 on a camera. I’m getting the 60D. The articulating screen and audio control are big pluses for me.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Agreed, the 60D is extremely tempting. My problem is that I often shoot that very high ISOs.

  • http://www.scottwatt.com scott

    To say you NEED full frame is ridiculous. We obviously didn’t “need” it before it came out. I’ve been a professional for over 10 years now and am actually thinking about getting the t2i as my main camera. IF you take care of your equipment you don’t need a well built camera. Invest in lenses! An expensive, beefier camera will not make you a better photographer. Just my thoughts. :)

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat
      • http://www.scottwatt.com scott

        cool cool. I just stumbled upon this blog when I was googling the 60D. :) thanks for this comparison!

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          No sir, thank you for dropping by. We appreciate the hits.

    • davis

      You need both! A good camera and lens to make a difference. My experiences show that great lens and cameras really do make a difference.

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        I personally think it’s the 12 inches behind the camera but that’s just me.

        And pardon me, but the fact that your last name is bacon has gotten me hungry and it’s 11:41 PM.

    • Ronald Hanesworth

      My question is, the 60D has in camera raw processing as well as built in lens corrections, noise reduction for high ISO. I’m sure the video is nice of which I would use occasionally but for most part I’m a still photographer. I had planned to shoot in rAW mostly but might use RAW=JPEG. Most raw processing can be done in camera rather than on a computer. I don’t think the t2i or the 7d offers any of this??? I play on using the Canon 24-70 L lens and shoot mostly landscapes and yes I do realize the a wider lens would be better just thing image quality will be much better with this lens. Your comments as a professional would be appreciated
      Ron rhanesworth10@yahoo.com

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        My comments on what exactly? You haven’t asked a question. If by built in lens corrections you mean micro adjustment, it does not. The 7D has it though. You’ll generally want to do your high ISO noise reduction in Lightroom 3. As for the 24-70mm, zooms do not beat prime lenses in terms of quality in the Canon lineup.

    • Brian L. Donat

      Hi Scott,

      I agree that one does not need the full-frameness of the new cameras. I bought a 5D Mark II however because I felt that the full frame feature was an indication of the camera having more to offer in terms of its feature load and capabilities and capacities.

      I had been taking great photos with a PowerShot SX100-IS for months while my Minolta XE-7 was down with a shutter-button problem. One could argue that you don’t need a dSLR. But there is a difference and perhaps, a marked difference to own a t2i instead of a SX100-IS and a 5D Mark II instead of a t2i.

      Need is relative to what is possible. The t2i and 5D Mark II can’t be stuffed into a shirt pocket and worn un-obtrusively into a circumstance where the visible presence of a camera would ruin spontaneity. So, I’ll keep my SX100-IS to satisfy that need. But id doesn’t do 21M pixel RAW and allow continuous shooting without a motor drive and that little PowerShot doesn’t allow user defined presets and a host of exposure and metering settings to allow instant adjustments to lighting and subject movement variances at the twitch of a finger either.

      And then we must wonder about obsolescence and ability to use other lenses and those EF-S lenses on other later technology cameras! Economics 101. Short term savings is long term expense.

      BTW: I use Minolta MD Rokkor lenses on my 5D Mark II via a Photodiox adapter. No sweat.

  • http://www.jaapmeijer.com Jaap Meijer

    Great comparison. Waited a long time fot the 60D (now having 40D). But now I really doubt: 60D (video-flipscreen) or 7D (quality, but bit more expensive).
    Thanks and I did already tweet this article via @jmeijer.

  • D90 user

    As a nikon user this Camera release/update is somewhat bland compare to what the d90 replacement will be. I hope Nikon will have more feature set than this camera. Nikon is better than Canon in terms of features, ergo, flash, better price, better lens etc.
    I’m sure a lot of Canon users are pulling their hairs right now as this release/update of 50D is not what they expect. kudos to Canon. Nikon will beat this specs for sure….

    • D90 user

      D7000 will be the name of replacement for D90…
      Im lining for that one in a few weeks…..

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        All that I’m going to say is that D300s and D300 users will be very angry and to look at Nikon’s trends to make a fair prediction. D3 users and D300 users thought the same thing about the successors.

  • Gevon Servo

    as a nikon user, i do like the 7d, D60 is like an updated Nikon D5000(thats not a bad thing)

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      60D, Gevon. To be honest with you, I think only students or tourists would get the 60D. I sympathize with 40D users though because that camera was a wedding workhorse. It still can be with good glass and at this point those users should have collected enough.

    • Reza

      Dear Nikon Users,
      Why is there a need to post about Nikon when the discussion clearly is about 3 Canon Models?
      Why?

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        Lol, in my experience many Nikon users secretly want the 7D the way that many Canon users (myself included) want the D700 and D3s.

  • Brent Morando

    As a 50D user, I expected the 60d to be a 50d upgrade (sounds logical to me) but no, they’ve actually sunk the class into the advanced amateur as opposed to semi-pro.
    Tragedy, I’ve owned the Canon D60, 10d, 20d, 40d, and now the 50d and will not continue purchasing this line if they keep up at this rate.
    Hell, if the d7000 is tempting enough, you NEVER know.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      With all due respect, you can get a used 7D or a refurbished one for around $1000. The times have changed, the 7D is more professionaly targeted.

      • matt

        Where can you get a good refurbished 7D?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Try clicking our amazon links and typing tin Canon 7D refurbished. That’s your best bet. B&H doesn’t have one at the moment of my writing this.

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  • Mousehound

    I agree with an earlier post. Haing made money – but not enough – to help my photography along I have invested a lot in the last 20years. I have used a 10D (sold), 20D(sold), 30D(keeping), 40D(sold), 5D (sold),5D2 (keeping) and just about to buy a 7D. After all that I have come to the conclusion that bodies have a life of 4 years max before you feel the compulsion to upgrade. They loose value FAST! Any of the bodies from the 30D on can give good results with a great lens. Great lenses do not loose their value. I would be happy with a T2 and an L series lens or two. And write the body off faster. It is also a lot lighter to carry. I have been lumping a 5D2 with a 300 2.8 L IS about and it is very hard work.

    • Brian L. Donat

      Mousehound,

      We do tend to lug around a lot of glass. ;)

      Brian

  • GB

    But as far as DSLR cinematography between the 7d and 60d?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      7d for quality, 60d for ergonomics.

  • Razz

    I am a just getting into the actual film-making side of things. I have been acting in micro-budget horror films for the last several years. I have a script, a canon 7d, and a very hard-working crew. Any kicks in the right direction as far as lighting would be very helpful (websites) shot some stuff already and realized how talented the DP was on the movies I was in. Also, why cant we have a DSLR with an XLR mic input?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Try Strobist. Horror requires a lot of hard key lighting to darker shadows and soft lighting for faces especially on beautiful females.

      Search on our site for Beacktek, there is an adapter by them for the 5D MK II that also works for the 7D with XLR inputs. To be honest with you, I’d value a headphone jack more than XLRs.

  • Tokolosh

    Thanx for the great forum!
    I have been waiting for the 60d since rumors started. Now that its here and my wait is finally over I’m reading the reviews (such as this one I googled) and I’ve changed my mind.

    I’m going for the 7d after all. Its prices have been steadily falling and the higher price compared to the better quality is “almost” justified.

    PS: The rotating LCD-screen is not really a selling point for me. How often will you REALLY need it.

    Thanx again, and keep up the good work!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Thank you for the kind words. I’ve got the 7D already and love it. It’s the first Canon camera that offered wireless flash control and I need that on studio sets and at weddings. The 60D won’t be able to keep up in terms of frame rates or ISOs.

      If/when you buy it, please support the site and purchase it through our Amazon affiliate by clicking the link. We’re a small site so everything we get to help it run really helps.

      • Sasquatch

        Yeah… I agree about the Frame Rates (still photography wise) but how aqain is the 7D better with ISOs? I thought the sensor was almost identical? I know 2 Digic 4′s help with the processing but how do they help the same sensor perform better? Don’t attack! I’m a Newbie on these matters. I owned a “film” era EOS 650 not anything digital from Canon except a Powershot G1. Thanks for the coming reply. :)

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Not a problem. Two digic 4 processors help quite noticeably because of more power and the way that the noise processing algorithms work in the higher level more professional grade model. I’m going to talk to the Canon reps in more detail about this and perhaps do a posting on it.

    • Mike

      >> The rotating LCD-screen is not really a selling point for me. How often will you REALLY need it.

      Actually, this is a huge selling point for me. I do lots of low shots. I got used to the swivel screen on an old S2 IS. For video, it helps a lot, especially considering that you’ll be doing a lot of manual focusing.

      I’ll be using my DSLR more for video than photography. This is why I prefer the 60D over the 7D. I really want the swivel screen and manual audio control.

      • Mark

        I have a T2i which I bought for backup and a 7D both of which 3″ screens do not do justice for video except in a pinch. You are mainly using the screen for focus and am glad to have the T2i and 7D with a 7″ monitor attached and which I can swivel however I want. You can buy a Lilliput with HDMI input for well under $200 and it does more than a fair job, or you can but a Marshall or SmallHD for that $1000 mark.

  • Luke Orlando

    Im really torn here…between all three really.
    I have a low budget, around $2600, but id like to get the most bang for my buck.

    I’d be doing photo and video pretty equally, since I write and try to make a couple short films a year, but I am also enrolled in a digital photo class this year.

    I would be spending about 200-300 on accessories…

    But I have no idea what body and lens combination suits my needs best. I only need one or two lenses…but like I said…I would like the most bang for my buck.

    Any ideas? All help is more than appreciated.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hey Luke, any of these bodies combined with Canon primes will suffice. The 50mm F1.4, 85mm F1.8, and 35mm F2 are all excellent choices and should still fall into budget. If you purchase all three, the T2I seems most attractive.

      • Luke Orlando

        Thanks a lot for the prompt answer! I’ve been all over the net and very few people have been willing to point me in the right direction, so I really appreciate it!

  • http://www.superirorsoundstudio.com francisco

    Ill say this just shooting a video in boston last week. The rotating lcd would have saved me from jumping up and down off the floor ;) T2i works but Im getting the 60d as a second camera.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Whoa, sounds like a story. What happened? Also if you do buy the 60D, purchase it through us please :)

      • francisco

        Hey its the least I can do after reading that super duper review!!! how do I purchase through you when I am ready to buy?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Click the links and then make your purchases.

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  • Photobrat

    Hi, I am in a position where I can buy either the
    Canon 60D or the Nikon 300S. I am unsure what to buy
    all I want is a camera that takes great photographs.
    We talking about bodies here and not lenses.
    So please advise should I buy the canon or should I buy the nikon?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      If you want better photos you go for the D300s. The 60D isn’t meant to take on the D300s, the 7D is. If you were to choose the 7D vs D300s, I’d say 7D all the way and I’m positive that our Nikon expert, Gevon, would agree.

      • Photobrat

        Thanks Chris, I really need advice as it is a lot of money to spend and I don’t want to buy a camera again for a while.
        I just want great sharp pictures from the camera. Ok, so now my choice is Canon 7D to Nikon 300s….. now that we have filtered it down a shot the question here is which one is better?
        I want to do a bit of everything, portraiture, birds, studio, I like all types of photography, so I am not specialising in anything.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Getting sharp pictures from the camera comes with being very steady while shooting as well as knowing the reciprocal rule of shutter speeds well on top of knowing how well calibrated your lenses are.

          As I stated previously, my choice is the 7D but they’re both different beasts meant to take one another on: http://thephoblographer.com/2010/06/18/long-term-test-canon-7d-vs-nikon-d300s/

          This is where we’ll have to get into the whole system. The industry says Nikon’s speedlights are better though I don’t particularly agree. The 7D is the first Canon camera though to have wireless flash control. Canon lenses are known to be better though that’s not to diss Nikon at all. They’ve got some really amazing glass. Like both systems you need to spend more. You’ll get the most out of your D300s and 7D by investing into the system and getting the good lenses and flashes.

      • Ric

        Glass makes a major difference in image quality. The difference between a cheap $400 lens and a $1200 of the same size is very noticiable.

        If you have $$ to burn, get the better camera, with top end lenses. If you don’t have $$ to burn, get the better ‘feeling’ body that will suit your needs and toss a top end lens on it.

        Between these 3 sets of cameras, the D60 is a perfect middle ground. I have a toss around T2i for fast pics and my 7D for planned shots. Both use my L lens and produce the same quailty images. Yes the T2i is slightly slower on AF, but not to the point where I get frustrated. It does ‘feel’ very plasticy though. That is it’s one major drawback.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          I’m hoping that you mean the 60D and not the D60 unless you want to get seriously flamed by other readers, kind sir.

  • miabilis

    i read all the page..it was helpful but i still need help..i am doing more video than photo..thats for sure.can anyone tell me for video what the exact difference is between 60D and 7D? and for red carpet and regular interview which camera and lens is better?
    i am newbie too..be esay and clear pls..
    thanks

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      7D has better high ISO image quality for videos and photos. 60D has the articulating LCD and manual sound control over video.

      For video get the 24-105mm F/4 L IS and some off-camera lighting. For photos, get the 70-200mm F/2.8 L IS II and a 580 EX II.

      While you’re at, purchase the items through my site by clicking the product links please since I helped you.

  • frank

    Man the T2i is no joke! Trust me you will not see no difference in the quality of the 7d/t2i/60d as far as video is concerned. If you master the setting on either youll be golden. I stuck with the t2is and am grabbing a 60d for the lcd articulation thats all. Quality wise the T2i’s are great.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Point taken. Now try autofocus, high iso shooting, wireless flash control, and customizing your settings.

  • Juliette

    I’m a huge fan of the T2i. The video is superb for the price range. Granted it’s not the 5D MKII but the video is close in quality. I agree with a few posters above… What matters greatly is the quality of lens.

    The down fall is the AF quality.

    So in my opinion, go for the T2i. If you can afford the higher price point, get the 5D MKII.

  • Levon

    Hi Guys,
    Thanks for all the good advise. I am planning to purchase the 7D or the 60D, however as I have understood the 7D is like a must have for Canon lovers, maybe collectors item! I am not a pro but love taking pictures and want a good camera for the next 10 to 15 years to come so when I look at the pictures I enjoy looking at high quality pictures, something lasting with high quality, high ISO. Taking pictures is more important for me than shooting videos with the cam. Well this is what I think: 60D, with a good lens and a good flash. On the other hand again 7D seems to be a better and faster, and stronger. What should I do? I want to purchase one of the two by the end of the week, so I would appreciate some good advise. WKRGDS to all Canon lovers, Levon

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Good choice, but your lenses are perhaps the only things that will last that long. Bodies are worth replacing about every 3-4 yrs.

      Please use our links when purchasing. It helps the site survive.

  • frank

    Heres a video I recently did with the T2i and a custom setting.

  • Jessica

    I bought the 60D yesterday and I’m very pleased with it :)

  • Paulus

    I’m curious why when everyone talks about lenses to use with these crop body cameras (T2i,60D,7D) that no one seems to mention the Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM lens? Its the perfect lens for indoor shooting with a crop sensor because the focal length ends up being great for indoor settings. The 24-105L is a great lens, but a poor lens for indoor shots on a crop body because its simply not wide enough. I have rented the 24-105L to use with my Rebel T1i, and while the pictures were superb, the inability to take shots inside a convention center hall without backing up into people was quite irritating!
    While the 17-55 2.8 isn’t an L lens, it has the optical quality of an L lens.
    I have heard people mention that the 7D has better ISO noise capabilities than the 60D or T2i, I haven’t seen this actually documented anywhere. Is that really true or just someone’s perception?

    • Tomm

      I’m loving the EFS 15-85mm lens on my new T2i over that horrible 18-55 kit. Perfect lens for just about everything I do with a camera. Other than the improvement in clarity and color, you wouldn’t think that 3mm makes as much diff as it does.

      • Levon

        I also have the EFS 15-85mm. It is just what I wanted & yes the colors are fantastic.

  • http://www.skloog.com/ Yael D

    Great blog post and d nice pictures kudos to Chris.

    B&H Photo is featured at the http://www.skloog.com/ social bookmarking web site – it is great for the photographer on the go.

  • http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/732047-REG/Canon_4460B003_EOS_60D_DSLR_Camera.html Moshe
  • TJAUA

    I’m looking to buy the 60D. but now I wanted to know if it’s a great camara
    Because my father has the 20D and I use that for shooting drag races events
    And car shows. But I’m in shooting video also and the new 60D comes with HD Video.
    This is not my daily job shooting things and making video but I would like to have
    A camara that can do all of the things so I don’t need to buy another just for
    Shooting video. How can let me know if the 60D is a good camara to buy??

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi TJAUA,

      It is, but the 7D will be better because of the better autofocus.

      Please use our links when making your purchase.

      -Chris

      • Levon

        I recently bought the 7D and I’m loving it. It is a great camera with features that are more advanced than the 60D. I also doubted between the 7D and the 60D and eventually chose for the 7D because of its capabilities which are better than the 60D.

  • TJAUA

    I would like to know if the 20D has a better AF then the 60D??
    U know why because my budget is a bid low that’s why. 7D is more like a
    Professional camara and y just take photos for fun it’s like my hobby and
    Also a saw that the 60D shoot 1 frame more per second then the 20D.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      60D has better AF. Try a 50D or 40D and get them through my affiliate links please.

  • http://www.spcamhc.org Carol

    I’m currently using an EOS-1 ds mark II; 90% of the time using a Sigma dg 28-300mm lens. 65-70% of my photos involve shooting shelter animals (need closeup face and full body shots to intimate size of the animal). Photos are printed in sizes up to 24″x36″. After 5 years with the eos, I’m looking for a new body (and probably some lenses). Need a camera w/quick focal response as some of these guys move nonstop, and durable as they jump on me, the camera, and lick the lens. Which one would you suggest? And, is the 7D less bulky than the eos? Also, do you have any suggestions for better quality lens?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Carol,

      I’ve seen some amazing work done with the 50D and a 24-70mm F/2.8 L from Canon.

      http://doodliebop.com/blog/

      If you want a more modern update, grab the 7D and a 24-70mm F/2.8 or the 24-105mm F/4 IS.

      Hope this helps, please be sure to make your purchases using our links to help support the site. If you need anything else, let me know.

      -Chris

  • TJaua

    I would like to know does the canon 60D has sensor cleaning like the 50D??
    Please let me know

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi TJaua,

      Yes, it does.

      -Chris

  • KC

    So if I’m a hobby photographer that always shoots with auto focus (auto everything really) which would I prefer, T2i or the 60D?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      T2i for price point. 60D for features like art filters and stuff.

      T2i is probably your best bet. Use our links when purchasing please.

      • KC

        Thanks! I just saw a T1i and noticed it uses an SD card. My ancient rebel uses compact flash and I’d rather not buy all new cards. Does either the t2i or 60D use CF cards?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Neither of them do. The 7D does.

      • KC

        I just found my own answer.

        The 7D uses Compact Flash. The 60D and T2i use SD / SDHC / SDXC.

        Figured I’s post it here so other people that don’t check the internet first like me have it right under their nose. :)

  • Kai Lee

    I am thinking of getting a 5D especially when the price has come down a lot recently. From your comment, The 7D is as good except it is not full frame. Is the difference worth the money? I also like the swing out screen in 6D because it makes it easier to shoot at awkward angles. They probably will incorporate that into the 5D mk III. How would you compare the 5D with the 7D? Do you think the 5D mk III will be released soon?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      For full on cinematography, the 5D Mk II is the one to beat.

  • David

    Hi all!

    What is the best cost and benefit? T2i or D60?

    Tks

  • Brian L. Donat

    I had debated the question of which Canon camera to buy for quite a long time before taking the plunge, just last week. What did I buy? The Canon 5D, Mark II won the appeal factor. I had considered the 50D, the 7D and 5D and for some time, it looked like budget would force the issue toward the lower end cameras.

    Why did I get the 5D? Ego? Financial insanity?

    The reasons for the 5D revolved around its superior features, its heavier and more stable body weight and its standardization on EF lenses and other accessories. You should note that the 7D and earlier cameras were designed use the Canon EF-S lenses which protrude deeper into the camera body and are said to produce a ‘cropping factor’. Both EF and EF-S lenses can be used on some of these cameras, but not on the 5D and 1D models. Only EF lenses are use-able on those cameras and they are called ‘full frame’ cameras as there is no ‘cropping factor’. This technical issue was one of the major decision weights which compelled spending the extra dollars for the 5D Mark II.

    The other compelling factor for the choice was ‘word of mouth’ from other photographers and student photographers. To be honest, one must assess the ego factor when listening to ‘word of mouth’ recommendations. I have listened to some students who all but brag about their 5Ds like they were Porsches and Ferraris. But there are some Photographers and Students alike who when providing their recommends gave very good technical and quality reasons for their decisions. These folks are really interested in getting 1Ds to flaunt either. The 5D suits their technical and quality needs and they are happy with the 5D.

    I haven’t had my 5D long, but I have shot other cameras and the 5D is a beautiful and powerful instrument for taking digital photographs. In a short time I’ve become acquainted enough to wring out some of its power and am impressed.

    I might suggest that those of you who are contemplated the 60D, T2i or 7D, invest in the 5D and save your money on those fantastically expensive L lenses. Spend that extra $$$ on the 5D and get some less than $1000 sonic lenses. Save your $$ on lenses. If you’re good with a camera, you ought not need a white lense.

    Brian.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Brian,

      Thank goodness you’ve said this. I love my 5D Mk II so much.

      Hope you purchased it using our links though ;) What lenses do you have with it?

      • Brian L. Donat

        Hello Chris,

        I have owned and still do own a Minolta XE-7. The shutter button had soured on me and for some time I had shelved it, buying a PowerShot, SX100-IS to get acquainted with digital camera technology.

        But you know, the PowerShot point and shoot stuff only tells a shooter so much about digital. The whole story must be learned by owning a dSLR and yes, I thought long and hard about which dSLR to invest in.

        With regard to lenses, Photodiox makes a Minolta MD to Canon EF adaptor, so I was able to make use of my lenses from the XE-7 kit, as well as the filters and other accessories, except for the flash unit. I was told by the photo lab manager that the capacitive storage of the older flashes could spike a voltage that might damage newer dSLRs and not to use it.

        I invested in two Canon Lenses when I bought the 5D Mark II, the 100mm Macro f/2.8 USM and the 85mm f/1.8 USM. True these are not the tele-zooms that most people froth at the mouth for when kitting their first dSLR. I love macro and it was a primary tickler in deciding which lense to buy on a budget. Beyond that, a good standard lense that did not overlap the capacities of my Minolta lenses was targeted.

        Among the Minolta stuff are a 50mm f/1.7 and a wide angle 28mm f/2.8. I also have a Vivitar 70-210mm Macro focussing Telephoto Zoom to handle the narrow angle zoom distance shots. Together with the new Canon lenses and a 3x adapter, this I consider to be a well rounded set of lenses which is only short an extreme zoom to say 500mm or more, a tilt-shift and an extreme wide angle ‘fish-eye’. But those lenses would be nice to haves, but not necessary for this contented shooter.

        I’ve noted that the 5D Mark II allows for some electronic color balance adjustments which ameliorate the need for some filters, but still am glad to have my old filter set and consider a need for some which I don’t currently possess. Of course the Canon included software and Photoshop (CS4 for me) allow for some sorcery which might figure in some folks heads to disallow a need for filters, but I figure the original shot should be as true as possible.

        I’d like to get the Viewer C and of course, I need a good flash unit and am considering the 580EX II.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Hey Brian,

          Thanks for the visit and the comment. First off, you win the prize of having the most unique comment I’ve read in a while, which is very refreshing.

          What the lab manager said about the older flash sounds very true. I’ve heard it and read about it on photo forums before.

          The 85mm F/1.8 is a lens I have. I love it stopped down, but wish it were sharper wide open. Amazing, it is supposed to be one of Canon’s sharpest lenses anyway. Do you have a need of 500mm? That’s an extreme. What do you typically shoot? Your loadout should be based on what you shoot usually.

          The 5D Mk II is amazing in terms of color. Every time I fire a shot off that camera amazes me and the final products I create in post-production amaze my clients.

          Get the 580 EX II if you need it. Otherwise, the 430 EX II is a great flash.

          Thanks for popping by Brian, I appreciate the commentary :)

      • Brian L. Donat

        Chris,

        There is one other accessory which I bought soon after taking my new 5D Mark II home and it has already proven well worth the extra nickel. “David Busch’s Canon EOS 5D Mark II Guide to Digital SLR Photography” by David D. Busch. This author gets into the gears of the camera and techniques which apply to all cameras and exposes some very potent additional reasons why the 5D Mark II is a preferable camera to what went before it, the 7D, n0Ds and so forth. You might think of those other cameras as ‘older’ technologies and the 5D Mark II (not the 5D) and 1D Mark III cameras being the newer technologies which have capitalized on the experience of sDLR design and manufacture of those older cameras.

        And right there you have but one more reason to spring for the extra cash and get at the least, the 5D Mark II.

        Of course, a good shooter can produce great pictures, as I have, even with something like a PowerShot. But it’s the additional capacity that allows a greater horizon of expression that is embued in the sDLRs as well as their larger format. I’ve already printed some 36×24″ giclees and the detail remains very fine.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Hi Brian,

          I’ve read that book whenever I’ve browsed through Borders, so I have to agree with you. It’s a great choice and I’m glad you made great purchase decisions: lots of people don’t and I was one of them before.

          Beyond what you say about the 5D Mk II taking great pictures in the hands of skilled photographers, it’s great that we can take full advantage of the lenses vs using just the center. Don’t get me wrong, I love my 7D as well, but they’re different beasts and compliment one another.

          http://thephoblographer.com/2010/10/25/which-one-canon-5d-mk-ii-or-canon-7d-for-weddings/

      • Brian L. Donat

        Chris,

        The thing I like about Canon lenses is their speed. Owning both Minolta MD Rokkors and Canon lenses, I am able to make some comparisons that perhaps elude others.

        The Canon lenses are wider barreled than the Minolta lenses. This of course means I need step-down and/or step-up rings for filters, but more importantly, it relates to the amount of light that enters the lenses. One might say that the Minolta lenses are darker lenses. But even that comparison is a tough one since the Minolta lenses I own are very short. The light gathering capacity of a lens (its speed) is nonchalantly determined by the aperture maximum diameter, its f-value. However, ambient to the aperture opening is a region of variance and that is what one should find relevant to the wider barrels of some lenses as opposed to others. The f-value is not always the last word about lens sharpness, speed, lightness or darkness.

        It’s worth keeping in mind when shopping for a new lens. f-value + barrel width + actual leading glass diameter is a good equation to keep in mind. Lens length also affects the amount of light and is frequently cited in evaluation of telephoto lenses, secondary to their depth of field characteristics. Internally, the arrangement of glass can also affect a lens’ light gather characteristics, but that’s more difficult to assess. When it all comes down to the wire, making a choice and buying into it, put the lens on a camera body and take a look. See how it behaves, how it meters, how it focuses and how it stops down.

        However I’ve read articles and have heard it said that the Canon lenses are lighter.

  • Brian L. Donat

    Typo correction:

    These folks are NOT really interested in getting 1Ds to flaunt either.

  • BC

    I’m currently shopping the 7D and the 60D and I keep going back and forth. I’m not a professional, but I am trying to start into it and while I can do some decent shots with either, for my own home uses the 60D would probably be a better camera. I have an XTi as a backup as well (which is why I really need to upgrade to one of the D’s) and I’m looking for some advice on what to do. Yesterday, I “decided” on the 60D whereas previously I was all about the 7D. I just don’t think I’ll need the larger FPS and other reviews have them pretty much neck in neck in most other regards. The 19 point AF on the 7D is very appealing as well….

    Basically, I’m a mess. ANY suggestions would be welcomed at this point!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Buy the 60D and a 50mm F/1.8 or F/1.4 from Canon and you’ll be more than happy enough.

      • Kin-Kin

        That’s what I have, 60D with 50mm f/1.8. Very, very happy!

        I was going to get 7D but for the price, I would have gotten the T2i. With a little more than T2i, the 60D offers the flip screen, wireless flash and manual audio control.

        I’m not a pro so that 8 fps is not a major for me. Shooting (Pictures and Videos) as hobby with kids and pets.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Glad you’re happy with the purchase :)

  • http://www.jeffhui.ca Jeff Hui

    I am a professional fashion photographer, I own both the 1d mark3 and a t2i as a backup.

    I love my t2i, it’s lite and easy to trival around, better VGA LCD then a $8000 camera(1dm3), can do HD video @ 60f/s, High ISO.

    Between, t2i, 60d and 7d. First I will take out 7d in the list. Because its a $1700 camera, its a different budget compair to the t2i and 60d. You will find the $800 you spend on the t2i so worth it or you can even pay $200 more for the 60D to get a few more features.

    I will go for the T2i cause if that price and the quality you get its so worth it.

  • http://dantaya.wordpress.com dantaya

    reading through here but didnt really get a good answer to what im searching for…
    Im really looking to get good quality video with a 60D and would appreciate lens recommendations.
    subjects are mostly close range (such as people doing yoga), and also outside lighting & scenery for shots.
    any advice would be awesome!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      50mm F/1.8, 85mm F/1.8, and 35mm F/2 is what you’re looking for. If you’re shooting all handheld, use the 24-105mm F4 L IS.

      Hope this helps. If you have anymore questions, let us know please.

      • http://dantaya.wordpress.com dantaya

        thanks a lot mate- you got any thoughts on an old nikkon 50mm prime lens, add that with the adapter. a friend of mine has a lens like that and is getting amazing shots, im thinking about going that route but not sure what sort of prime 50mm to look for.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Not a problem Dantaya. I know a lot of cinematographers that do that. They get a 50mm F/1.8 or 50mm F/1.4 and put on the adapter ring because they prefer the quality and the aperture ring. If you’re going to do this, know that it’s going to be all manual focus and be prepared for that.

          Eventually, I strongly recommend that you move up to the Zeiss optics because they’re amazing. But for what you want right now, you can’t go wrong.

          http://thephoblographer.com/2010/10/29/hands-on-carl-zeiss-35mm-f1-4-for-canon-still-and-video-samples/

          http://thephoblographer.com/2010/10/30/hands-on-zeiss-85mm-compact-prime-cp-2-t2-1/

          If you are going to make purchases, please use our links to Amazon and B&H because it helps to keep supporting the site.

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Just looked at your site: the Nikkor 50mm will do. However, eventually you’re going to want to upgrade for sure to either the Canon lenses I mentioned or the Zeiss lenses I listed.

          That’s something to keep in mind for the future. I say this because of the type of shots you’re doing and the focal lengths you’ll need. An 85mm on the 60D is 136mm which can do that shot of the dolphins you have there with no problem.

    • http://superiormediagroup.net frank

      I would get the 50mm 1.4. THe 1.8 has a horrible focus ring. cheaper but in my opinion not good youll get some fingers in your shot adjusting on the fly.

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        Fingers in your shot adjusting on the fly? Forgive me, but how big are your hands?

  • Glad

    Hello,

    We are deciding between the T2i and the 60D. First SLR digital camera. We would primarily use the camera for indoor volleyball (kids) and being as close as 15 feet and as far away as 150-200 feet. Will take some video as well. Would also use the camera for vacations and the occasional family portrait. We plan to use the camera a great deal for the next 6 years or so.

    We are looking at the following lenses:

    Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L or the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 EX DG for Canon

    and…

    Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM or the Sigma APO 70-200mm f/2.8 II EX DG HSM for Canon

    Please let me know if one or both lenses are necessary and also your advice on the Sigma lens… lower cost but similar performance as per my research on the internet… ?

    We have a budget of about $2,000-2,500

    Thank you in advance!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Glad,

      At your price point it would be best to go for the T2i and the Sigma lenses. Those Canon L lenses are best suited for professionals. Since you’re not a professional those lenses will work well.

      Another popular choice is the Canon 70-300mm F/4-5.6. But if you truely want to learn more about photography and really get into it then take the 70-200mm instead for the constant aperture at that price range.

      The 60D is better made, but if you take care of your camera and no one drops it or uses it roughly you should be fine with the T2I.

      I hope this helps. Please use our links when making your purchase to help support the site.

      • Glad

        Thank you for your response and advice. We were thinking about getting the Kit lens that comes with the base camera to use for everyday situations and investing in the Canon 70-200mm for the indoor volleyball and other family events to get professional looking photos. I am planning to take a photography class at some point so I can get upgraded to a serious amateur. :o )

        Thanks so much!

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Well that’s the best way to do things within the budget for sure. If you’re going to do that though, I honestly recommend you pick up a Canon 430 EX II as well. That’s a flash and all you have to do is set it to ETT-L auto and point it at the ceiling and you’ll be good.

          The Canon 70-200mm is a big pro lens. In all honesty, you can get professional results from the Sigma and save yourself more money. The Canon version is for super duper sharpness and color rendering.

          Here’s the round up of our coverage on the new Sigma lens http://thephoblographer.com/2010/11/27/the-complete-sigma-70-200mm-f2-8-ex-apo-ds-hsm-os-field-review/

          I shot an engagement with it with no problems.

          Once again, when you’re making the purchase please use our links/banners.

  • Glad

    One more quick question, does the IS/OS matter much for sports action shots? Some reviews say you don’t really need it for that purpose. The price of the Canon vs Sigma w/the stabilization is significantly more than the ones without. Please advise… Thanks!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      If you have shaky hands, it sure does matter. Plus longer focal lengths are harder to keep steady.

      • Glad

        Thanks again! I did purchase the T2i and the 18-55mm lens via your link from B&H… we are renting the Canon 70-200mm IS this weekend to test drive the lens in both modes (IS and no IS) before we buy…. Happy Holidays

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Not a problem. Let me know how it all works out please because I’m interested to know.

  • Edward Williams

    The primary interest I have in the 60D is the articulating LCD. However, I would prefer the 7D for better quality & features or the T2i for cost. Does anyone know if there is an after market mirror attachment available for the LCD on either the 7D and/or the T2i that can be used for overhead and low ground level shots?

  • naenero

    Wow, thanks for the fantastic review! I’ve read through all of it except the comments about the Marks since those are waaaay out of my budget.

    I’m planning to upgrade from the xti (I know…) to either the t2i or 60D, but now that I hear the raving about the 7D I’m having difficulties deciding.

    I’m by no means a professional photographer but I do get out there and take more than just birthday party/wedding type photos. I’m leaning more away from the t2i as I understand it’s more of an entry level camera, but am wondering if the 7D will be too extravagant for an amateur/hobbyist photographer. I’d like to save any $$ I can and just wonder which would be most adequate. Thanks for answering the same questions in various forms!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hey, the T2I will be more than enough for what you’re doing when paired with good lenses and perhaps a flash. The same goes for the 60D but it is better in terms of FPS, wireless flash control, art filters, and build construction. Additionally it has a vari angle LCD. If you’re not making money from your photos, I suggest the Rebel and get good glass with it and a flash if you can.

  • Roberto

    Hi Chris and thanks for the great advice to all! I’m a seasoned pro filmmaker (Emmys and Academy Award) yet have never had a DSLR. I’m now getting the bug, and just bought a T2i. My reluctance to go 5d or 7d was that clients would want a full up lens & accessory package that would run $5k to $8k. For this money, I will wait for the Panasonic AF100 or Sony f3 coming out within the next 60 days. But I still want a DSLR and feel like I made an error with the 2Ti. I plan to swap it for a 60d, and would like to hear your thought about using my fast Nikon AI-S lenses, specifically the 85mm 1.4. I also own a set of Zeiss High Speed Distagon lenses, but they are for 16mm cameras, so I they probably won’t adapt well. For additional prime lenses, is it worth going with fast Nikon AI-S lenses, or purchasing Canon EF lenses? Thank you

  • Kevin E. Hildebrand

    I have read all postings with great interest and I see that a lot of fist time buyers and hobbyist ask which camera is right for them. This may be more easily answered in my opinion if it is also known for what purpose the camera will be put. Sports/action, portraiture, street shooting, landscape, wildlife, casual/general all of these have their own equipment requirements. All of the cameras mentioned have their strengths and weaknesses, and all have their place.
    One piece of advice I would share with all is to learn your chosen camera inside and out. A seasoned pro with a T2i will out shoot a novice with ease because of a higher level of photographic knowledge. Place a pro level camera in the hands of a novice and their results will not improve or may be even worse! How do you use your camera, how do you want to use your camera, and what can you comfortably budget for? I own (digital) an xT, 40D, and 5DMkII, and have taken great photos with all of them as well as a few not so great. A high quality lens on a lower priced camera body beats a lower quality lens on a higher priced camera body. Think much – buy smart!

    • Brian

      Hi Kevin,

      Yes, it’s true that depending upon what purpose one puts their camera toward they might be able to get by on a lower budget to fulfill that need. Point and shoot? Spend $200 or less.

      However, diversity warrants flexible options and that means a camera that can handle different exposure settings, modes, accessories and lenses. And yes, that means a wider variety of lenses. There is a trade-off there with the budget for sure. Quality lenses entail different characteristics, sturdier build and construction, Magnesium, Titanium, special glass and glass coatings. There are fast vs. slow lenses and sharp vs. soft lenses, light vs. dark lenses, lenses that auto-focus, lenses that incorporate image stabilization and so forth. But are those high quality features always necessary at the cost of the budget and limiting diversity in one’s lens kit?

      Time is a monster. In time the best can be acquired. But why the best? Ego?

      I do agree that what one acquires in a camera must suite their need, but time is a monster for yet another reason … change. What will one do with that camera a year from now?

      There’s technology out there that allows a great deal of diversity in shooting. And in terms of camera and lenses, the decision might lead to the scrape … every penny … to get what will fill the niche for a long time without needing to trade up or buy something else in a short time.

      And sometimes those seasoned pros surprise me … like the guy in the camera store with a top-end Nikon with a tele lens bigger than the camera and … a flash on it. How the Inverse Square Law works for a flash / enormous tele combo, I haven’t a clue. Sure flash units zoom, but that far?

      Life is full of surprises and inconsistencies.

      I agree, it’s a good idea to know what you are doing and what you need to do it.

      Brian

  • Andrés

    How much of a difference does the pentaprism viewfinder of the 60D make versus the pentamirror on the T2i? 96% vs 95% sounds negligible, and you still don’t get 100% coverage with either…

    Thanks

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      It is negligible.

      • Andrés

        Hmm…. I did see that the magnification factor sounds much greater in the 60D (0.95x VS 0.87x). Is that more significant?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Very slight. The only place where I see the difference is with the 7D. Most people will be fine with the viewfinders. If anything the 60D is brighter in my opinion.

  • valerie

    Ok i read the entire post and i still dont know what to do. I have a XSI canon but i feel i grown out of it. i usually think the lens make the difference.

    Im in between the t2i and the 60d i i want light camera my hand is very small so i get tired quickly. Its really not about the $.

    Im a graphic designer with some photography school that works as a photographer on weekends in the us and over seas. Mainly outdoors photo shoots to latin models and family photography.
    An I had such a great success that im taking it more seriouly every day.

    So please help me!! also i only own 2 lens the 50mm 1.4 / and the Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Autofocus Lens.

    what camera u suggest and what lens you think i should purchase? fish eye maybe?

    thank u so much!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Valerie,

      Based on what you want to shoot the 60D would be better. As for accessories, I’d add an 85mm F/1.8 lens to your kit and perhaps a 35mm F/2. Plus, I’d buy either a 580 EX II or a 430 EX II. The former is a more professional choice.

      If you have any other questions, let me know and I’ll be happy to provide guidance. Thanks for the visit.

      • Valerie

        HI Chris thanks for the help
        But yesterday i went to see the cameras again and now im between the 60d and 7D. my goal has always been the mark II but i feel i dont need that camera yet. which one between those 2 you think i should buy. I have read a million time all the reviews and features of both and i cant make up my mind. Is it really worth for me to spend those $600 more?

        ohh and the 35mm F/2 i believe is a wide angle lens right?
        if it is not to much to ask can you explain to me the lens also.
        as far as what is the best use for them like portrait or landscape… the more info the better.

        THanks ;)

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Hi Valerie,

          60D if you’re NOT SURE if you want to go pro or semi-pro later on. 7D if you’re POSITIVE that you want to go semi-pro or pro. What do you feel you are.

          35mm F/2 on the 7D or 60D will be around 56mm, which is what is considered to be a normal perspective (one that mimics the human eye). The reason for this is because of the APS-C sized sensor which gives a 1.6x crop factor.

          For landscapes, the 35mm will be enough. For portraits, go for the 50mm F/1.8 (or the 50mm F/1.4 if you can afford it) or the 85mm F/1.8. The 50mm will be about 80mm and the 85mm will be around 136mm. You’ll just need to select which focal length you like to work with better.

          When making your purchases, please be sure to use our links as they help to keep the site running so that my staff and I can keep advising readers.

  • Isaac

    Wow.. Very detailed but i did not understand about 95% of it.. Im looking to get a camera for christmas and I have owned a few point and shoots but thought it was time for a upgrade.. I have never touched a SLR so i am not sure what it can do.. But I have a little one on the way so that is my motivation to get either a T2i or the 60D. Just to capture those simple moments.. or take some pictures of the car.. Also any simple “idiot guide” for lens?

    Thanks

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Isaac,

      Get the T2i. Most of that money will be needed for the baby. (Congrats btw)

      These may help: http://thephoblographer.com/2010/04/28/recommended-items-for-the-canon-t2i/
      http://thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/ (50mm F/1.8 will probably be best)

      and maybe this: http://thephoblographer.com/2010/09/01/the-complete-gary-fong-puffer-review/

      Feel free to pitch anymore questions.

      • Isaac

        Thank you. As for simple terms what is the difference between the 60D and T2i?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          For what you care about:

          60D: better build quality, faster shooting rate, LCD screen that swivels, art filters that can be applied to your images.

          T2i: simpler usage, more affordable.

          Of course, there are other differences, but you wouldn’t care about things like wireless flash control.

    • Valerie

      LOL im sorry Isaac im a latin girl what can i say.
      Was it the info or my way of writing?
      now im just between the 60d and the canon 7d
      so im back to the beginning let me bother Chris again! :)

      the T2i looks like a perfect camera to start with.

  • Isaac

    Yes i did see someone mentioning the plastic and stuff.. Does the T2i have a cheap plastic feel to it? is the 60D that much more durable? Sorry alot of question’s but wanted to do my homework also didnt realize how much of an expensive hobby/investment photography was.. I am pretty careless at times with my possessions so the quality of the materials do matter.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Your T2I will break if it isn’t treated with respect and care. It is plastic. The 60D has a much better construction. Please read the posting carefully, the answers are all in there.

      • http://akessigphotography.com Alyssia

        Yes, the “d” models have much better construction… I’ve got a 40d and that was my upgrade from a very old rebel… like the 1st generation… I was surprised to see how much better it was constructed… however, better construction comes much heavier…. bear that in mind…

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Hi Alyssia,

          thanks for the compliments and the feedback. The 40D is an excellent camera. I don’t think you should go with the 24-70mm though.

          Now here is the thing: the 5D Mk II with the 50mm F/1.4 will be great for portraits. However, the 85mm F/1.8 will be much better.

          What I also recommend is a 580 EX II or 430 EX II. The 7D has wireless flash control though, so it can trigger lights off camera. Why the 7D? It sounds like you want to get very serious about your photography and that’s a more pro level camera.

          Extra information is available in the links in this posting: http://thephoblographer.com/2010/10/25/which-one-canon-5d-mk-ii-or-canon-7d-for-weddings/

  • http://akessigphotography.com Alyssia

    Hi -
    What an amazing post! Thanks for the great review and all of the prompt responses! Interestingly enough, I have a slightly different situation.
    I am a serious amateur, slowly beginning to build my business. I shoot all kinds of situations along with I’m developing a knack an rep for portraiture…. So, my very generous husband is offering to buy me something for christmas… OOHHHH!
    I currently have a 40d, shooting with either the canon 50 1.4 or the (newest) tamron 12-275 3.5-6.3.
    I get pretty good results but I find I struggle with autofocus on occasion and I’d like to know what the best route would be for me to go…
    Should I get a new lens… canon L 24-70 2.8? or should I upgrade my body to the 5d mark II? or keep using the 40d and ADD to my repertoire with a 60d /T2i and get the new lens too? Gosh, I’m confused.
    I’d appreciate any advise…..
    Thanks

    • http://akessigphotography.com Alyssia

      As a side note, I am thinking that my tamron might behave better on the mark… just curious… (i had to adjust the settings on my 40d for it to work properly..)

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        You’re talking about Micro adjustment? You usually need to do that with 3rd party lenses.

  • Jerry Cargill

    Great discussion!

    I am torn between the 60D and the T2i. I am planning on doing a lot of studio portrait work, and also some outdoor street portraits but not much event work. I plan on buying a Metz flash to work with whichever I get and a Canon 85mm 1.8

    I won’t be using a tripod, so the weight is an issue. Yet I will be carrying it around the city, so ruggedness and weather-readiness could be issues.

    Your 2c.

    BTW I will click on your sponsor links!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hey Jerry,

      Tripods suck ;) Hahaha, I kid.

      Okay, if you’re doing outside street portraits here’s my recommendation:

      60D + 85mm F/1.8 or the 50mm F/1.4 (depending on which focal length you prefer. Remember that the 85mm is 136mm and the 50mm is an 80mm) The 60D will give you wireless flash control and if you want to use it on-camera you can go right ahead and do so. The 60D is also built much better.

      Metz flashes are actually surprisingly good, the interface is just a bit of a pain. You can try the 50 AF-1 since it’s smaller for easier portability. But I actually wholeheartedly recommend and love the 430 EX II from Canon. Best bang for your buck flash ever!

      You don’t really need a tripod, the 430EX II for example comes with a stand that you could mount onto a small gorillapod if anything to place that speedlite anywhere you want. With that though, I’d purchase a flash modifier too though. My favorites are the Gary Fong Lightsphere Collapsible, the Orbis, Rogue Flashbenders (these things are serious powerhouses and can be used as almost anything including a reflector or a snoot) and I’m right now testing the Ray Flash and really, really like it. These are all light items that can easily fit into a messenger bag with the lens attached to the camera, and an off-camera strobe.

      Now, do you really see yourself going out to shoot in the rain often? I mean the 430 EX II will perhaps be the better choice but if you want real ruggedness, you’ll need to spring for a 580 EX II. That’s something you’ll need to decide for yourself, if you’re not going to shoot in the rain, don’t spend the extra money. Put it towards something else.

      Hope this helps man. To be honest with you, this was a real joy to respond to because I find myself trying to light subject while outside too with wireless flashes. In bright sun, you really need to dial down the power, but yeah.

      Enjoy man. Please come back and show us the photos. When you say the city, you’re in NYC?

      • Jerry Cargill

        Thanks for the quick reply! I am in Chicago, and I travel a bit, and will be going to Paris next summer.

        I don’t plan on actually shooting in the rain, but I’m thinking about humidity that might be an issue if I’m schlepping this thing around in my messenger bag on a snowy or rainy day.

        I’m wondering if the weight could be fatiguing during a long day in the studio, or if it could be awkward lugging it around a city for 12 hrs or so.

        Some other info: this would be my first digital camera. I’m a high school photo instructor and our school has an older Canon Rebel DSLR, and I’ve just fallen in love with Canons. My personal cameras are a classic contraflex 35mm which is pretty heavy. A classic Rollei 120mm. Both cameras are about 60 yrs old. Both are unstoppable German tanks. Yep, I know that this next body I buy will be obsolete in about 4-5 yrs.

        BTW–my other camera is a Holga!
        http://www.cargillcontemporary.com
        http://jerrycargill-newphotos.tumblr.com/

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Cool man. I’ll check the sites out when I get a chance.

          The 60D, 50mm F/1.4 and 430 EX II with either a Ray Flash or a Rogue Flashbender will still suffice. Humidity won’t be an issue. Nor will the weight: I’m 23, 5 foot 6 inches and around 140lbs. I’m not a large man and I zip through NYC’s tourists crowds with a messenger bag on me with all that gear in there with no problems. Sometimes, I even throw a Macbook in the mix.

          Congrats on your first digital camera! We’ve got a Rollei 120mm in the office where I work. You’re right about them being Panzers ;)

  • Jerry Cargill

    Oh, when I say that weight is an issue/concern, I mean that the weight of a 60D vs a T2i. One of my students has a 50D which has a definitely heavier, more solid feel than our school’s older Rebel DSLR.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Don’t worry about the weight too much, the 7D is more the successor to the 50D and the new 60D is nothing more than a higher end Rebel now. Canon did this to target the cameras more towards specific market segments.

  • Jerry Cargill

    I know I’m now straying off-topic, but is a Ray Flash something to use in addition to a Metz/Canon flash or as an alternative? I’ve never used a ring flash.

  • Walter

    Chris,
    Thanks for a lot of good information. I’d be interested in your opinion as well.
    History: grew up with a film SLR (Olympus). Have not bought a digital SLR due to cost but the time is now. I miss having depth of field control Kids are mostly gone (sophomore in college left) so my need for sports shooting is fading. I take shots at vacation time, holidays, etc and a recent sailing trip in San Diego (very nice) however will never use a camera for income – only hobby. I’m just a few years from retirement so will have more time to play around and experiment soon. My wife reminded me that I’ll likely take pictures of weddings (ugh) and grandkids in the future. I was all locked in to the T2i and went shopping with my wife. Bless her heart, she looked and the 60D and the Nikon D7000 and asked if I’d considered them. I’m now stuck in analysis paralysis hell. While I’ll take some video it is not a priority so the articulating screen is nice but not a deal breaker. The 60D and D7000 fit my hands better but I wonder about fatigue in use. (My current camera is about the size of the T2i). I do at least 60% of my shooting in auto but situations like sailing in San Diego had me playing with apertures and shutter speeds. This camera will likely last me 10-15 years minimum so I don’t want to “under buy”. I played with the Nikon D7000 yesterday and it is very nice but at almost 2x the price of the T2i I’m questioning the value. (I have the budget clearance :) for either so it’s not a cost factor – rather it’s a question of whether I could get the value add out of the additional costs for either the D60 or D7000. I have no investment in lenses for either manufacturer (that would have made the decision for me). The D7000 intrigues me due to the 39 pt AF system. The focus & metering are two things high on my list.
    So – a lot of background. Your thoughts on whether the additional funds (from T2i to 60D) are worth the differences and if I go there, then it’s a small jump to the Nikon D7000.
    Any insights would be appreciated.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Walter,

      Welcome to the site, and thanks for the compliments.

      First off, realize that no camera is going to last you 10-15 years minimum in the digital age. If you want something close, I’d buy the 7D. But you’re shooting in Auto nearly 60% of the time and mostly just shooting for fun. I’d recommend that you purchase a T2i (because of the better video modes) and some good lenses like the 50mm F/1.4, 85mm F/1.8, 35mm F/2, or the 17-55mm F/2.8 IS. The latter will be all the glass you’ll ever need and the Rebel will focus very quickly with the lens.

      The D7000 is a very good camera though with better build quality. If you do go the route of the D7000, realize that your video modes are still a bit limited (and not as good as Canon’s) but your image quality will be better. The 50mm F/1.4 and perhaps the 28-300mm ED or 24-120mm F/4 would be my choice for Nikon if you want to invest for the next ten to fifteen years. The Nikon’s focusing is also better.

      So granted that video isn’t a priority, I’d actually tell you to go get the Nikon D7000 with one of the lenses I mentioned earlier. Please realize though that you’ll probably be on a waiting list for the Nikon camera.

      I hope this helps you. If you have any more questions or if I confused you more (totally not my intention) I’d be happy to further help. Please use our affiliate links and banners when you make your purchase as they help to support the staff.

      • Walter

        Chris,
        I spent hours in a store today with a patient and unbiased salesman who tolerated by endless stream of questions. After some time I came to the conclusion that I could get great pictures with the T2i. The only thing that bothered me was the “feel” of the body – it doesn’t fit my hand as well as the D7000. Coming home I spent more time looking at picture comparisons between the 2 cameras (dpreview has a nice feature) and found that I preferred the Canon. It wasn’t better an any way – just more pleasing to my eye/taste. I asked my wife to pick her favorite (without showing which was which) and she picked the Canon as well. So, now with the brand decided I’m considering the T2i against the 60D. The 60D “feels” better in the hand and has the 9 pt cross type focus points. As mentioned previously, the articulating screen is not a big deal for me. So if it were you, would the difference between the two models be worth the extra $?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          60D’s body and features are very well worth the cost.

  • Pradeep

    hi.. i am thinking of upgrading from canon T1i. i was comparing t2i, 60d and 7d and stumbled upon your blog… thanks for the valuable information..
    i think 60d would work fine with me.. but not sure if i need to upgrade my lenses too.. i currently have tamron 2.6 17-55vc, and 18-270vc. and canon speedlite 480.
    do you have any experience of using these accessories with canon 60d? any information would be great..
    thanks

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      You mean a 430? 430 EX II?

      If you’re going to upgrade, keep your T1i as a second body and have the 60D as your main. Also, I’d recommend you go for Canon glass. My favorites are the 35mm F/2, 50mm F/1.8, 50mm F/1.4, 85mm F/1.8, and the 17-55mm F/2.8.

      Do you want to shoot professionally or for fun?

      • Pradeep

        thanks for the reply..
        i have Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash
        i shoot for fun.. but seriously. so thats why the upgrade.. i found buyer for t1i so that would help offset some of the cost for 60D.
        i do have canon 50mm f/1.8.
        do you have any experience with the two tamron lenses with 60d?
        Tamron AF 18-270mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC LD
        and
        Tamron AF 17-50mm F/2.8 SP XR Di II VC

        thank you so much for your valuable input.. and yes i will buy it from amazon through your link.. :)

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          If you’re going to get the 60D, then I’d ditch the T2i and 18-270mm. Keep the 50mm F/1.8 and the 17-50mm F/2.8. The 430 EX II is an excellent flash. If you’re shooting for fun seriously, then you could probably get either the Rogue Flashbenders, an Orbis, a Ray Flash (for the 430 EX II).

          I personally stay away from third party lenses. They’re nice, but have focus problems. I haven’t tried them on the 60D but have tried Tamron lenses on my 5D Mk II and 7D. I wasn’t thrilled.

          Now that I think about, maybe try the 85mm F/1.8 as well. It will be amazing on your 60D.

  • Pradeep

    chris
    i was thinking of using 18-270 as my all-purpose lens.. it still is in the time window where i can return for the full refund.. but i really find the all purpose lens useful for my quick use.. what would you recommend for that? should i get 18-200 canon kit lens with 60d? or something else?
    thanks

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      The Canon 18-200mm will autofocus much better/faster and if you want to get closer you’ve got 18MP worth of cropping that you can do. It doesn’t sound like you mind variable apertures, so then you should be okay with the kit lens.

      • Pradeep

        Chris
        is there any advantage in getting a lens with UD? should i see if lenses have this feature when purchasing?
        thanks

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          You mean UD and florite? Do you have any lenses specifically in mind?

      • Pradeep

        Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS UD Standard Zoom Lens

        vs

        Canon EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Standard Zoom Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras

        the 18-135mm has IS UD and 18-200mm is only IS.. although 200 does give extended zoom but i was wondering if UD would give any added advantage
        thanks

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          In layman’s terms, the colors get rendered better and there is less distortion with the UD lens. If you’re shooting in RAW and editing later on though, most people won’t be able to tell the difference.

          Hope that helps. If you want to read more, look up Chromatic Abberation. UD elements prevent this and with Nikon, ED elements do this job.

  • Min

    Hi, I’m thinking of buying a camera but I don’t know about this area, can you kindly recomand one?
    In fact, I’m considering either t2i or 60d but if you know better one feel free to tell me.
    I’m going to use the camera mostly for making a short film or music video to upload Utube. Also, taking a pictures of people in move. To make a vido, which one is better, also, can you recomand lense, too? Moreover, is it better to buy t2i with better lense or 60d with ok lense since I have budget limint…
    Thank you for read and I’ll waiting for the answer…Merry Christmas…

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      T2i, Canon 50mm F/1.8, Canon 35mm F/2, Canon 85mm F/1.8 and a Rode Videomic.

      Please use our links when purchasing.

      • Min

        Oh, thank you very much…
        I’ll ask my company to buy through here..!!

  • Nick

    Chris,
    Very Useful forum. After reading the comparison of T2i, 60D and 7D, I need a your opinion. I am hobbyiest and looking for some cameras. I got 50D as gift with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lense Kit which I can easitly return and get 60D with EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Kit. (I think I have to pay $250 more for difference). I am confused over this. Can you please help me out. What i need camera for portraits / landscape / street shooting.

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Nick,

      You’ve honestly got a great camera in the 50D. I’d recommend a 430 EX II, 50mm F/1.8, 35mm F/2 and 85mm F/1.8 for most of what you’re doing. But if you want to get into serious portraiture then I’d say get the 60D or 7D for wireless flash control. The 35mm on your 50D will be more than enough. The 35mm F/1.4 on my 7D is perhaps one of my favorite combos.

      Hope this helps. If you choose to make a purchase, please use our links. However, it seems like Santa was very good to you.

  • Al

    Hey there, This review and forum has been a great place to catch up on the Canon DSLR camera’s that I am interested in.

    I come from a serious amature background with film cameras but only recently getting a higher end DSLR camera. My choice is the 60D, given this I have a dilema regarding the choice of packages and lenses…

    My Christmas present is a kit (D60 with a 18-135 zoom), but would the kit with the 18-200 zoom for slightly more be a better choice?, or get the D60 kit with the 18-55 and add a 55-250 zoom?

    This is what I have avalable locally to choose from:

    1) D60 with 18-135 base kit
    2) D60 with 18-200 + $100
    3) D60 with 18-55 and 55-250 + $130

    I will be shooting a variety of photos and video but at this point only serious amature in scope.

    Thanks!

    • Al

      Actually it looks as though I can get the D60 kit with the 18-135 or 18-200 for the same price… this week (2 different stores)

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Al,

      First off you mean the 60D, not D60.

      go for the 18-135mm for what you’re looking for or the 35mm F/2 and 50mm F/1.8.

      • Al

        Thanks for the reply Chris,

        60D, that is what I meant to say… So were you thinking that the better lens for video might be the 50mm F/1.8?

  • John

    This forum was very helpful!! I too had analysis paralysis so I went out and bought all three cameras (60D, T2i, Nikon 7000 – Thank-you Future Shop for your great return policy :) ) The advice given in this forum helped me make my final decision – T2i.
    The Nikon was too expensive – $1250 vs 60D ($950) vs $700 (T2i). I took the advice of getting the 50mm 1.8 lens ($100) and 430EX Flash ($300). Thank-you for this advice versus purchasing a kit combo with a poor lens. I have loved taking pictures with this combo.
    I actually took the T2i because it was smaller and lighter and had the same guts as the more expensive models. The 60D was nice but I didn’t need the few extra features it had and I thought it’s too heavy for regular day use – taking pics of the kids, family events, etc. As well, to take advantage of the wireless flash would necessitate buying the most expensive flash (580EX).
    I’m very happy with this choice and am thankful for everyone’s input and Chris’ great advice.

    The only thing left to do is to get a good “regular use” lens. A friend has suggested Tamron’s 28-75 2.8. What do you think? My primary use is for taking pictures of the kids, portrait shots, and travel (taking tourist pictures).

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi John,

      I’m going to tell you the same thing I told everyone else: go get a 35mm F/2 and a 50mm F/1.8. Third party zooms have focusing issues.

  • Pingback: 20 Top posts « Oxford School of Photography

    • Anand

      To everyone here,and Chris, Happy New Year.

      Guys, I bought a Sony Alpha A33 beginning of November last year, and went to change it 2 days later. My purchase would not allow me a refund back so I added more money and purchased a T2i/550d. Don’t have words for how bad the A33 was, neither have words to say how impressed I was with the Canon.
      I’m a graphic designer working in the signage industry, so photography is a hobby at the moment. I usually take a lot of pictures of my 3 year old. It’s a challenge, because they’re never still. But I learn much quicker, and I can say that by end of Nov I knew pretty well how the T2i worked. And the pictures I took with the kit lens were impressive. I bought a 50mm 1.8 mk2 just before Christmas. On Christmas Eve took great videos and pics of my kid. Very impressed with the lens.
      Christmas day went to my uncles house (whole family get together) forgot the camera in the car.
      Car got broken into, lost the camera, but the thief left the sd card behind, and did not take the 50mm lens.
      Totally gutted, disappointed and no way that I will find the camera, so I’ve decided that end of Jan I’ll be buying the 7D. Reading this post and all the comments here have got me to this decision. I’ve got the 50mm 1.8, but I’m looking for input on lens. I will be putting a lot of money toward the body, but need an all rounder lens for capturing the kid at the playground to taking pictures of completed projects at work. Any advise will be greatly appreciated.

      • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

        Hi Anand,

        My condolences for your loss ;) In all seriousness though, you never leave a camera in the car. It’s like putting it in a freezer or a hot oven depending on the weather. That can damage the sensor and internals.

        It sounds like you need the 35mm F/2. Though I rarely do recommend 3rd party lenses, the Sigma 30mm F/1.4 may also be a good choice. Smart choice with the 7D as the AF tracking on it is superb. My only qualm with it is that it is designed for APS-C sized sensors so if you ever do move up to a 5D or 5D Mk II then that lens is useless to you. It’s perhaps a step below the 1D Mk IV.

        And of course, please use our affiliate links so that we can continue to help you guys out.

        Mind showing us some photos? Maybe I can help you with techniques if you’d like.

  • Anand

    Hi Chris,
    Thanks for the advise. It helps when people like yourself give us a push in the right direction. We work very hard to earn our money, and when we spend it on expensive equipment not knowing (especially me) whether it will return the investment or not, it’s websites like these that give provide a guiding light. Thank you very much.
    Please send me an email on anand@devisuals.co.uk I will reply with login and password to my site where you will see all the work. BTW where are the affiliate links…

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      You can click the product links in the story or you can use our banners on the side to amazon or B&H.

  • armando

    Well I really believe the 7d & 60d compliment each other.

    I spent the whole night & morning (5am to be exact) of the cons and pros of the 7d & 60d

    I have the canon 60d = A great video recorder if you do alot of video, that agc control disabled is a huge difference and the screen that you can see yourself in; that can’t be beat, but if you ever have held a 7d or go to best buy and hold down that shutter speed. well you’ll be wanting it bad with the nice fast auto focus and squares! The 7d is the still picture monster, and the 60d took over the video aspect of the 7d. so in a sense; and its a pretty expensive buy for both the 7d mkii would be the 60d & the 7d squished together.

    Once I pressed down that shutter button..and felt the speed..my 60d felt slow even with the 30mb sandisk write :) but has a real purpose!

  • raviraj

    Hi ,
    I was Planning to buy the canon 60D. My main use will be for video (indie type films) . Is the 60D a safe bet or are there any better ones in same price range? also which will be a decent lens (again cheap/budget) to pair with this ? I will NOT be shooting long shots/animals etc. I only need it for Simple narrative videos.
    Also what about the Panasonic GH2, some people have said its MUCH better for video as compared to the 60D , any opinions on that?

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      The GH2 is better in terms of video from what I understand, but it cannot beat the 5D Mk II.

      If you go 60D, then get the 35mm F/2, 50mm F/1.8. You’ll need nothing more.

      If you go GH2 then get the 40mm F/1.7 and 17mm F/2.8.

      • raviraj

        Im a total novice when it comes to lenses. Can you tell me which of the above is a telephoto or wide angle? and which one will be used for general indoor shoots especially in low light ? Also ive heard nikon has a 50mm F/1.8 lense which is better than the canons? Also that teh canon 50mm F 1.8 makes some audible noise while focus and video shooting?

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          35mm is a wide angle but on the 60D it will be around 50mm (which is a normal focal length that is close to what the human eye see.)

          50mm is a normal focal length but on the 60D it will be around 80mm (telephoto)

          They both have fast apertures and will be excellent with general indoor shoots in low light. The Nikon is built better, but it doesn’t have better image quality. If you’re shooting videos on a DSLR you’re going to be manually focusing, trust me.

  • raviraj

    Thanks chris,
    As of now im inclined on the 60D over the GH2 , since GH2 isnt availabe in the indian market yet, also Panasonic doesnt have great customer service/support in india .
    So unless the GH2 launches soon with a Bang , I’ll probably get the 60D Body and buy a 50mm F/1.8 to start with . What are your views on Audio solutions and overall accessories (mounts/rigs/etc) for indie movies using such dslrs? Is the on board mic enough or does it capture too many disturbances?

  • Bonnie

    Great initial post and thread but of course am even more confused now having read through it all!!
    I’ve owned a Canon Rebel XT for years now (Ok, maybe 5 or so) and definitely want an upgrade, as the flash has stopped working and I could use a few more features. We recently shot a short film on my friends T2i and was definitely impressed by the quality of the picture (coming from a camera that was originally just for photos). But instead of paying to use his camera, I thought it was about time that I killed 2 birds with one stone and got a new photo camera as well as a video camera – so the question now is do I get the T2i or the 60D? I will be filming a webseries/short films that could get into film festivals/be shown on big screen. And will be taking photographs of mainly landscapes that will be displayed. I am leaning towards the 60D – is it justified to spend the extra few hundred bucks on it for my purposes? And what would be the best lens package to go with this? (how do canon lenses match up to Tamron?)Thank you so much in advance for your help – will be sure to use your links to purchase!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Bonnie,

      It sounds like you need the 60D. The vari-angle LCD screen helps so much in terms of ergonomics while filming. The High ISOs are also better on the 60D as is the build quality.

      Don’t go for Tamron. Get the Canon 35mm F/2, 50mm F/1.8 and 85mm F/1.8. Short films require scenes that are already set up, so the prime lenses will be best and the better image quality mixed with the shallow depth of field that is possible will be important to the cinematic storytelling. The 60D’s build quality is better though.

      The other alternative would be the Panasonic GH2 with 20mm F/1.7, Voightlander 25mm F0.95 (very expensive). The GH2 has wonderful color, but most people will not be able to tell the difference if you manually white balance and really tweak the settings. Or you can adapt nearly any lens you want because of the Micro Four Thirds mount.

      If you can’t afford the GH2 and lenses, then do the 60D. You won’t be disappointed.

      • Bonnie

        Thank you so much for your quick response….your advice is much appreciated. The Panasonic is very tempting from what the few reviews and articles I just read on it, but I have a strange loyalty to Canon – perhaps to my own disadvantage?
        I have never had a problem with my Canon lenses but was curious as to why you don’t recommend Tamron?

        Thanks again!

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          Autofocus issues is why I don’t recommend Tamron.

          I’m a Canon person myself. Go with the 60D and the lenses I recommend. People swear by the 50mm F/1.8

      • Bonnie

        Oh and also, do you know any details about the sound? My friend was saying its better on the T2i?

      • Bonnie

        Chris – you’re awesome! Thank you so much – you just saved me another five hours of research!

  • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

    Not a problem.

    Come back if you have any questions. We’re always happy to answer them. Also please remember to use our links :)

  • CathyJo@bright.net

    Just purchased a Canon T2i and am wondering what lenses to buy. I want to shoot everyday pictures of my grandchildren and shoot pictures at soccer, cheerleading, and football games. Thanks for your help!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      Hi Cathy, your best choices are the 85mm F1.8, 100mm F2.8, 18-135mm, 70-300mm or the 18-200mm from Canon. I personally would go for the fixed focal lengths but you’d be best off with the more affordable zoom lenses. Granted, the zooms won’t give you top of the line image quality but they are designed with consumers like you in mind.

      When purchasing, please use our affiliate links and banners.

      • CathyJo@bright.net

        Thank you very much! Appreciate your input!

      • CathyJo@bright.net

        I have not used the T2i yet and am debating if I should go with the 60d instead. What are your thoughts on the two cameras? I am upgrading from a Canon EOS Rebel XT.

      • CathyJo@bright.net

        Still trying to decide if I should keep the T2i or go with the 60d. I am upgrading from a Canon EOS Rebel XT. Appreaciate your input!

        • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

          What have I done to confuse you? ;)

          60D and the lenses I suggested.

  • Bonnie

    I’ve got confused again! After having lunch with my photographer friend, she told me her videographer boyfriend and her photographic self bought the 7D for its dual processor…is it worth the extra 6/700 bucks for this for shooting video?! I had been settled on the 60D and was going to purchase today, but now having second thoughts again!

    • http://thephoblographer.wordpress.com Chris Gampat

      You’ll only truly see the effects of the dual processor in still images. If you purchase the 35mm F/2, 50mm F/1.8, and 85mm F/1.8 you’ll be fine.

  • Mars

    Okay, I am a bit confused if I should get the 60D or the 7D considering the fact that I do want the perfect DSLR mainly for shooting video, but at the same time I want the best image quality. It appears to me that the 7D wins in the image quality department vs. the 60D. I really like the swivel screen on the 60D for filming low shots and weird angles. However, I don’t think it’s going to be a must-have if it will compensate for image quality (probably not much of a difference anyway lol). If I’m not wrong, the 7D does better than the 60D in low light which is good news for me. As far as overheating goes, I assume it’s not much of an issue for either unless you are shooting for a whole day. I could care less about the audio features.

    The 60D seems to have more bang for the buck, but the 7D is oh-so-tempting. I originally wanted a 5D Mark II, but since there is no way I can afford it right now, I am left to decide between the 60D or 7D. Even though they are both not full-frame, which one of these cameras would be closer to producing a cinematic effect or a shallow depth of field if properly utilized? Which one can capture video in slow motion better also? I know I’m asking a handful of questions, but I’m very confused in choosing between the two. lol

    To buy or not to buy the 60D or the 7D? That is the question.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Mars,

      Thanks for the comment. As for cinematic quality, you need to shoot at 24p video mode and get some of the recommended lenses here: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      Both will capture slow motion well when shooting at 60p and slowing the video down in post processing.

      The 7D will blow the 60D away for video and high ISOs. The 60D’s advantage is in the ergonomics.

      I hope this helps and I’d ask that you please use our links when purchasing.

      Do you have any other questions about the cameras?

  • Bonnie

    Just wanted to say I purchased the 60D and the 50mm lens as you recommended via the bh link on your website…I have already shot some video and taken a bunch of photos and I am one very happy girl! My old rebel does not even compare. Thank you so much for your help!

    • Chris Gampat

      Thanks Bonnie.

      Show us some video and photos please. Also if you’ve got problems that you’re encountering, come back and I’ll try to help you.

  • Mars

    Thank you for answering my question. It looks like I’m leaning more toward the 7D. Can you tell me how much of a difference in quality the 7D has vs the 5D MK II? Quality is my main concern, but still not very sure about saving more for the 7D’s big brother or just getting the 7D and having money leftover for lenses etc. I appreciate your input!

    • Chris Gampat

      5D mk ii at high ISOs beats the 7D no questions asked. But the two cameras was were designed to compliment one another.

  • Jason Clapp

    Hi! First off; I love this forum! Man, what I would have given to have seen this 6 months ago when I was shopping for a DSLR! How about this irony…My first camera was the T1i and had my transmission on my car die. Long story short, I sold that camera just shy of the T2i coming out and several months later decided to sell my truck to buy my camera back (I felt naked without my camera and felt that I would use the camera more frequently than I would use the truck). Anyway, so I was in the market for a camera again and my choices were very hard to choose from. It was the hardest decision to make!! I had narrowed it down to the T2i, 60D, a used 1D MK III, Nikon D7000, or the 7D. After further review (from many, many, many) websites, I then decided to narrow it down between the Nikon D7000 and the 7D. Which one did I choose?? I ended up with the 7D because I was told that changing from Canon to Nikon was about as easy as trying to learn a whole new language. I didnt want that hassel, so I bought the 7D. I have taken a few shots with it and I have never been happier!!! No regrets here, and as a matter of fact, I have paired it with a 580EX II just recently and will be investing in the next week or two in some L lenses. I have a few ideas and have started leaning towards the 70-200mm f2.8L, 50mm or 35mm f1.8, a 24-105mm f4L (although I would like to see if there is a comoperable 2.8 or faster because I enjoy the low light portraits), and a 17-40mm f4L. Phew…thats a lot of money! Eventually, I would like to try out the 5D MK II, but I dont have that kind of budget trying to save on the lenses. I think for what I want to do, the 7D will do wonderful for me! I am very excited to push my 7D to its full potential!

    • Chris Gampat

      Thanks for the comment Jason. Switching between systems isn’t that difficult to be honest. But congrats on the 7D purchase.

  • Cathy

    Should I have a Lens Hood or UV Protection for my Canon Lenses?

  • Mike

    Hi Chris, I was all set to buy a Canon with some zooms as my first ever SLR rig until bumping into your site. It will be used primarily for bird (raptor) shots – lots of rugged, high elevation hiking (weight!), long distance shooting, catching birds in flight (I assume a higher FPS and faster autofocus will be helpful for this one), and enough low light situations to make it a consideration. I KNOW NOTHING beyond P&S in auto mode, but am confident I can learn. I was set to go for a T2i because of weight, value and ease of use, but after reading this thread I’m inclined to dig a little deeper for a 60D because of the higher FPS and maybe a more rugged, though slightly heavier, body. But…are the models above the T2i as easy to learn on?? Thanks so much for the good information – I’ll link through to 1 of your partners for the purchase.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Mike,

      Thanks for the comment and the visit. The 60D is easier to learn on than the 7D. But if you want to eventually go pro, then the 7D will be the absolute best choice. Either way, learning also depends on how much commitment you’ve got to the camera and the art of photography. Bird photography takes lot of patience. It was a while before I snapped the first butterfly photo I ever liked.

      7D’s autofocus also blows the others away in terms of tracking, but that doesn’t mean that great images can’t be created with them.

      I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have other questions.

  • Kerner

    I’ve been pondering an upgrade at home for awhile now and think the 60d is the perfect choice, but I’m really torn. The primary reason for the upgrade is to add video capability and a bit sturdier build quality I’ve got a 7d at work and really love it – shooting equal video and still. Occasionally I’ll borrow a 5d from a friend and appreciate the full frame quality.

    Right now at home we have a rebel xs, an 18-55, and a 50mm f/1.2, 80mm f/1.8 and a 430ex. Whichever body we pick we’ll also add a 18-135 and a 35mm prime.

    I know that stepping from the xs to either will feel like a huge upgrade for my wife, I’m concerned that with the 60d I’ll miss the feel and quality of the 7d. The flip out screen and audio controls would be a huge plus for video though. I’m also aware that this may not be the best time in the product cycle to upgrade as there’s not an urgent need.

    Would love to hear your thoughts.

    - Kerner

    • Chris Gampat

      Either one will work, but it sounds like you need the 7D since you work with one at your job and the fact that you’ve got all that nice glass. I think that nice glass needs a nicer camera and sensor (hence the 7D). To be fair though, a 60D can compliment your 7D’s weakenesses: like being lighter and having the articulating LCD.

      For your wife, set either one in auto. She’ll like the 60D more because of the lightness.

      Go with the 7D Kerner, that’s what I really suggest.

    • Chris Gampat

      Also, come back if you have other questions and please use our links/banners when purchasing.

  • Cathy

    What UV protection do you recommend for the Canon Lenses?

    • Chris Gampat

      Tiffen is great. B&W is perhaps the best.

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  • Cathy

    I have the following Canon Lenses…

    Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens
    Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens
    Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS UD

    What B& W Filters do I need for each? Is it the B&W UVA (Ultra Violet) Haze MRC Filter that you recommend?

    • Chris Gampat

      Yes, it is. You need to check the thread size of your lenses. That information is on the plastic area front element of the lens usually.

  • Cathy

    Is Amazon one of your sponsors to purchase from?

    • Chris Gampat

      Yes, Amazon and B&H. Hence the specific links to the product listings and the banners on the side.

  • Steve

    Just bought a T2i and added a 24-105 L series lens.The camera is wonderful,pictures excellent.I started on Canon years ago..20 to be exact.Love photography and dont care to argue over cameras.If you really love taking pictures you wont try to step on someone to get a little ego stroke.I still have my first Olympus Om1n film camera I learned on and a Mamiya 645 medium format. The T2i is great and I may add a 7D soon.

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  • stan

    Chris,I love your opinions. I have one similiar nquestion you have had manny times, almost. 20 plus years ago I owned my own studio and photographed mostly women with a wide range of other things on occasion. Used different formats. I have some experience with digital, but nothing in DSLR. Just thinking of 60D to get back into shooting again. Looked at 7D and loved the feel but wondered if it was a best first step to get back into shooting for the extra mooney. Will do some studio and location both. Your suggestion would be appreciated. Thanks.

  • stan

    oh yes, to be sure to note that I will only be doing it some of the time and not that much for a while and that is why I was wondering if the extra cost is going to be worth it for the 7D over the 60D.

    • Chris Gampat

      Yes because of microadjustment, better built body, and better ergonomics.

  • wilma

    Need some advice from experts…… want to buy a great camera that takes great pics. i am a beginner……don’t need all the bells and whistles what is a great one to buy????? thanks for help so many to pick from i am overwhelmed!

  • Emre

    I will be using the camera mainly for it’s movie mode.Isn’t it wiser to get D60? thanks

    • Chris Gampat

      The 60D for the ergonomics, but the 7D for the better manual controls.

  • Tash

    On the fence about which camera to purchase the Nikon D700, or Canon 5d Mark2….

    • Chris Gampat

      Canon 5D Mk II. Hands down. End of story.

      I <3 mine ;)

      In all seriousness though, what lenses do you have?

  • Tash

    At the moment, i only have two nikon lens. I currently have the Nikon D3000, to get me use to shooting with a DSLR.

    • Chris Gampat

      You sure you ready to move up to a full frame? And are you also used to a DSLR? The D700 and 5D Mk II are a whole nother breed.

  • Tash

    I think so, i been reading DSLR information for the past couple of months. I hear the D700 is a great camera, as well as the Canon 5d Mark 2. I was first thinking about Canon 7d and the Nikon D7000.

  • Tash

    In order, which one do you feel is a camera to start off with- the 5d Mark 2, the 7d, or Nikon D700?

    • Chris Gampat

      They’re different beasts:

      The 5D Mk II has video, has great high ISOs and can deliver very detailed imaged.
      The 7D has the same as the 5D Mk II with more video tweaks and faster fps.
      The D700′s main strength is the high ISO ability and better AF system.

      It makes sense to stay with one system. In which case:

      7D -> 5D Mk II
      D300s -> D700

  • Tash

    Thanks for your assistance. I really appreciate it.

    • Chris Gampat

      Sure. Read the other article, it may help you more.

      Also, when you make your purchases please use our links and banners. It helps the site stay alive.

  • Mark

    Hi Chris, I’m getting into photography, specially fashion photography, but i´m been thinking about get 7D instead a t2i or t1i (something cheaper),i don’t to replace in 2 years beacuse i need something more profesional, I prefer spend a little more and get something really nice and great and keep it for year and over time buy some lenses.

    what you think?

    • Chris Gampat

      The 7D is the camera I wish I had when I was a paparazzi (which involves some fashion work.)

      7D is the way to go along with some L lenses. Work your way up to the 1D series afterward.

  • Mark

    Ok, so you recommend wait a little more, get the money and buy de 7D?

    • Chris Gampat

      Yes sir!

  • Bonnie

    Just uploaded some of my 60D camera shots on my website: http://www.bonnienordling.com – they’re the usual sort of introductory shots…but really do love it as it makes me work around the object, instead of just zoom in and out from one stationary spot. I’m becoming more detail oriented – which is only supported by the amazing detail the 60D picks up. I’ll post video soon.

    • Chris Gampat

      Those are some vivid pinks…whoa.

      slap a prime lens on, watch your photography change.

  • Bonnie

    Which prime lens would you recommend? I currently use 50mm f/1.8

  • Bonnie

    Thanks – again!!

  • Mark

    Thanks!!, I will work these months, maybe on may 7D will be mine, preffer so much a great camera for years that a nice camera for a couple years!

  • avinash

    hey chris once again i might be asking the same question but plz do suggest me which camera to go with is it 60D or the 7D

    • Chris Gampat

      What do you want to shoot?

  • Larry

    Thanks for the comparison. I started out with a 10D with some good Canon tele lenses, then to a 20D. The wife is at Sundance and just won a 60D! Here is a question: my son sold the 10D I gave him because he didn’t like to wait to see the saved raw photo. I could give him the 20D, or buy him a T2i (which he’d love) – is the 20D really that much slower to ‘process’ a raw image?

    • Chris Gampat

      Significantly slower. The T2i has a much faster processing engine and can work with the most recent batch of memory cards.

  • http://www.tammyscottphotography.com Tammy

    Hi,

    I have spent the last hour reading the posts and I thought I would leave one. I started my photography business about a year ago and I started with the Canon Xsi which was a really good camera, I only kept it for about 6 months when the T2i come out so I sold that one and got the T2i and I’ve currently been shooting with it.
    I love it, it takes really good pictures I don’t use the video because I don’t need it. I have 3 lens the kit lens 18-55mm, the 50mm 1.8f, and the 55-250mm IS. And those are great don’t get me wrong but I would like to get new ones and I was wondering what I should purchase next. I shoot mainly portraits, and some times I’ll shoot flowers and Bugs. So I want a fantastic one thats flawless, I don’t want to have to do a lot of editing once I get it to lightroom, I like it to be perfect already. I’ve decided to upgrade next month to the Canon 7D. And I’ve read all of the reviews from many different sites and the one that really sold me to the 7D is this one. I really loved how the cameras have been side by side reviewed. And I plan on becoming a professional as time progresses and I get better. So Eventually I will upgrade to the Marks but for now I just wanted the borderline professional camera and the 7D will do just that. So my question for that is- is the kit lens that comes with the 7D a really good lens or is there another one that you would prefer?
    I do love my T2i and I’m not replacing it, I just think that if I’m going to be a professional I need more than one camera, in case something happens. And I know how the T2i takes so I just want to have a variety and I know I’m going to love the 8fps. The only thing I didn’t care for but its no problem is the CF memory card, they get expensive. And the one at wal-mart is $54 but on the back it only goes to 12 megapixels, so if I bought that one would it still work in the 7D or would I have to lower the mp in the camera to 12mp? And when I finally get to purchase the 7D it will be from Amazon or B&H I love both sites. So umm well I think that just about does it. Thanks
    Also anyone can check out my website to check out how the T2i shoots its http://www.tammyscottphotography.com
    Also feel free to leave comments to the pictures as well I’m always eager to learn new things that will help make me a better photographer.

  • Hall

    Hi Chris nice comparisson great website. I have a question for you since you have a 7d; do u have an armor cover or silicon skin for your 7d as some extra protection? I need some advise thnx in advance

    • Chris Gampat

      Nothing. This thing a beast.

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  • http://patsweeney.1x.com pat sweeney

    HI I have read most of this thread with great interest, as I am upgrading from a 450D to either a 60D or a 7D. I am a fine art photographer, and am beginning to sell and get portrait commissions. I am leaning towards a 7D. But weight is a big issue for me. I carry my camera everywhere and it’s very light. Have you heard any complaints about the 7D weight, say with a (gasp) long lens on it? I do love primes, but really enjoy the versatility of a zoom…
    thanks! Pat
    Check out my work done with the Xsi… patsweeney.1x.com

    • Chris Gampat

      I’ve never complained about the weight of my 7D, though I readily admit that the 60D is lighter and can deliver amazing results. My only peave with the 60D is the lack of Micro Adjustment for lenses in the custom menu.

  • John

    Very informative review, thanks very much. I have been using a Rebel XT that is notably dated and in need of replacement. I am an amateur, with no intention of pursuing photography on a professional basis. Cost is not an issue. I shoot a bit of everything — not just the usual kids and pets and landscapes, but also events with a lot of movement (sporting events, moving animals and vehicles, etc). I usually use autofocus. I have considered all of these models, and am still torn, mostly between the 60D and 7D. Which would you recommend given my using habits and needs? It sounds like from the reviews that they are all relatively easy to use, and that the 7D has the best autofocus of the three. Many thanks for any advice you can offer.

    • Chris Gampat

      Thanks for stopping by John.

      The 7D does indeed have the best autofocus of the three. However the 60D’s is also really quite good. Thanks for telling me more about what you shoot, it makes it so much easier for me. The 60D is easier to use, but the 7D has a more complicated AF system and more versatility. To be quite honest with you, I’d go for the 7D if cost is no issue. Just be sure you’ve got good lenses to go with it. We’ve got a list here http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      But also, the 17-55mm F/2.8 IS may be highly coveted by you as well as the new 70-300mm F/4-5.6 L. I’m saying these lenses because they are top of the line and targeted more towards non-professionals.

      Stop by again if you have any more questions, I’d love to help more. Also, please use our links/banners when purchasing.

  • WalterWhite

    I’ll make this simple:

    It all depends what you’re going to use it for. And be realistic, please.

    Video: I recommend an actual video camera. But the 5D II is the best DSLR for video at the moment.

    High Quality Pictures: Get a Nikon. Or if you want to save money and feel you NEED full frame, get the Sony. Full Frame for around the same price as the 7D– Just have to admit to yourself you don’t need the video mode. 35mm Film and Medium Format cameras also still exist, so…

    Entry Level Pictures (If you just graduated from P&S): Get the T2i, a micro 4/3′s camera or another P&S. The important question here is “Do you prefer a viewfinder and manual controls on your camera?” and the next would be “What is your opinion on the quality of the photos your current P&S is giving you?” If you’re perfectly happy with them– Save some cash. Stick with P&S.

    Street Photography: Get a rangefinder. Leica if you can afford it. Digital if you can afford it. Bessa if you can’t. Or a Canonet if you want to go really cheap.

    Sports and Nature Photography: Go Nikon.

    Go look at some Canon photos and then some Nikon photos on flickr. Just focus on IQ. I guarantee you will find the photos taken with the Nikons more appealing to the eye. Especially the D3(series) and D700 cameras– if you want that really professional DSLR look then these are what you’re looking for.

    Now how about some lenses?

    • Chris Gampat

      See “the best budget lenses”

      Also, let’s make it simpler: it’s the photographer who makes the images :)

  • Steve R

    I have read all the posts here and the reviews for both the 60D and the 7D. I am not a pro but have been shooting either film and now digital for the past 30 years. I am stepping up my game quite a bit with some donated time for a local boutique for their on-line store, ads, newsletter, and general photo work.

    I have a well used XTi that I have outgrown. I want to move up to something that will give me a lot of room to expand my skill set while giving me great photos for different media and sizes. Video is done on a HF200 so my video needs with a SLR are minimal.

    I enjoy natural light shooting but also use a 430EXII and have Photoflex Stars for portable studio-like shots. Lenses include: EF-S f/2.8 100 L macro, Tamron AS 15-50 VC…, EF 50 F/1.4 and a couple of kit lenses EF-S 18-55 and EF 28-80 plus an older EF 75-300 f/4-5.6.

    I am leaning towards the 7D but the extra cost above a 60D is not insignificant. The 60D seems to have some issues with quickly changing settings which I find I do frequently. I also take a large number of natural light and macro photos so high ISO with minimal noise is very nice.

    Given the limited information, what would you think would be the best over all camera for me?

    Thanks

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Steve R,

      You had me at step your game up. Also, thanks for listing your experiences. The 7D seems like the best choice for you because I bet that you’ll want to get more lenses, so Micro Adjustment will be essential.

      Hope this helps, let me know if you have questions.

  • Steve R

    Chris,
    Thanks for the reply. What I meant on “Stepping Up my Game” was doing more complicated photo techniques with more studio and table studio work along with more official functions and local fashion show photos.

    I agree on the additional lenses. My selection is still expanding as I phase out the older lower quality ones. The micro adjustment feature is new to me but seems very valuable for multiple lenses of differing quality etc.

    Thanks for the feedback.

  • Sj

    I’m new to photography but want to photograph animals and take family pictures in low light. Do you recommend the T2i or 60D? (I’m planning to take a photography class so I know how to use the camera fully and don’t want to buy something I’m going to grow out of in a few years.) Also, for pets and low light what lens do you recommend?

  • Kate

    Hi Chris,

    This is such helpful information—you really know your stuff. Like many others commenting here, I’m making my first leap to a DSLR and don’t know which of the three (T2i/60D/7D) will be the best choice. I don’t know much about advanced photography techniques, but I want to learn eventually and would like to make a camera/lens investment that I can use for at least 4 -5 years…

    I would be using the camera primarily for landscapes and interiors, furniture, artwork, and small objects. I also am looking to play around with making stop motion films…essentially I’d be doing lots of indoor work within a controlled static environment (w/ tripod). Not much action use,and I don’t care much about shooting video beyond stop motion abilities. I also want interior shots to look stunning without the need for extra lighting equipment, beyond perhaps a simple flash attachment, so low light shooting quality is very important.

    Can you recommend which of the three cameras would suit my needs, and what lenses I should be buying for this type of work?

    Thank you so much!

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Kate,

      First off, I want to thank you for being thorough. Second, I want to commend your initiative because you want to learn. I hope that drive stays with you.

      I think you’d be fine with a T2i, 430 EX II/580 EX II, and the lenses on this list: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      The 35mm and 50mm sound ideal for you more so than the 85mm.

      Hope this helps.

  • Shaun

    If Im wanting to shoot mainly indoor (models) with some video and some outdoor events such as drag races. Which DSLR is better….The Canon 60D or the Canon 7D?

    • Chris Gampat

      7D all the way.

  • Shaun

    I also got recommendations to use the Canon 17-40MM L lens for shooting? I’m a little confused because I thought that lens was only for landscape shoots. H.E.L.P….

  • linda

    I have been going to buy a camera for a long time now. I have studied this for a long time. Now the 60D is out. I might be ready now. What I want to do with it is to photograph my bed and breakfast. I have had two professionals come shoot and I was with them both the whole time they were here. I loved it and I have been bitten by the bug. I have looked at so many b&b sites over the last 3 years. I am sure I can see what is done to capture the feel I want. I also want to shoot my friends bed and breakfasts. Any advice? I really am just about ready. I just need to know which camera to choose. Thank you all. I have learned so much here.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Linda,

      You want to document a bed and breakfast? Any of these cameras will do just fine when paired with these lenses: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      However I think you need to realize that good photography take time, patience, and honed skill. You’re not coming across as understanding this concept totally. The most important part of taking the photo is the vision behind the viewfinder.

  • Farooq

    Hi Chris,

    First of all Thank you so much for the review and quick responses to many questions. From the discussion itself i got answers for my question and also decided to buy 7D .
    I will be shooting videos mainly but also photos of course . I dont want to go with the kit lens (18-135 mm) by seeing alot of negative reviews about it.

    Please what lens do you suggest for a better image and video ie, for videos and photos equally ?

    Thank you ,

  • Farooq

    actually i cannot afford many lenses for videos and photos , so I wanted one lens to do the job of video and photo eequally . Can you suggest a inexpensive lens ?

  • Shaun

    I have no photography experience as well. Would a 7d be a better choice?

    • Chris Gampat

      No photo experience? No, go for the T2i or the 60D. The 60D is a camera that you can grow with for a long period of time because of all the extra features.

  • linda

    I know I sound inexperienced and I will admit I am. I have practiced taking so many pictures of my bed and breakfast over and over. I have been practicing for two years. I also have looked at so many other websites of bed and breakfasts with good and bad pictures. I am going to take classes starting in March. I have had my bed and breakfast for 10 years and I feel I know the feel I want to capture in the pictures. There is a feel you get when you look at bed and breakfast online. The don’t all have that feel. Please tell me what I am lacking so far. Thank you very much. When we opened the inn I had an unexplainable passion to do it and I think I have succeeded very well. Now this is my passion to photograph what I have created. To capture that feel.

    • Chris Gampat

      Link me to your photos and I’ll give you a critique.

  • linda

    If you go to our site and look on the Ivy Cottage Page I took the pictures on that page. I am sure that I need the critique and am looking forward to it. The other photographs were done by two different photographers. I am excited to do this. Thank you so much.
    http://www.ivyhousebb.com

  • david

    I use a canon G5 and have 3 leica slr camseras with
    leica prime lenses 28-400 including 3 f2 lenses i am thinking of buying a 60d or 7d with a zoom lens and a leica adapter to use my leica lenses which is the best canon lens to buy 18-135 17-85 i will also buy the canon 50mm F1.8 how good are the canon zoom lenes

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi David,

      I don’t like the Canon zoom lenses until you start to dip into the L glass. In that case, the 24-105mm F/4 L IS is perhaps the most bang for your buck lens. The 50mm F/1.8 is a great choice as well.

      If you’re shooting professionally, go for the 7D. If you’re shooting for fun, go with the 60D.

  • marji

    Hello, i have a multi-faceted question. i have had the rebel xti for the last 4 years, looking to upgrade at some point, but was going to first start with getting some new lenses. well, i dropped it @ a month ago and totally ruined the lens that came with it, the body doesn’ seem to be broken but is making a extra noises. so my dilemma is this, do i still stick with the body and just buy the ef 24-105 f/4 i’ve been eyeballing. i really want a good walkaround lens, as i typically dont change lenses a lot. i take mostly pix of my son, but have some great vacations coming up (hawaii, arizona, florida) and want to capture scenic pix as well. or do i take the plunge now and buy the 60d with the upgraded ef 18-135mm lens and just use that for awhile. i also need to buy one staple “go to” fixed lens for pictures of my son and wondered if the 50mm f/1.4 would be best. sorry so lengthy. i will use your links to purchase on b&h.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Marji,

      Okay, I think you should upgrade from the XTi to the 60D. But if you do, then get the 24-105mm F/4 L IS or the 50mm F/1.4. The former was my bread and butter lens for a very long time.

      If price is a concern though, then get the 50mm. It will be 80mm on your camera and the F/1.4 aperture will give you some beautiful bokeh. In this case though, I actually do recommend the Sigma 50mm F/1.4. It’s a great lens and better built with better image quality.

  • Rob

    Chris,
    Great info; thanks for your hard work.

    Like everyone, I’m struggling with choices. I’m strictly an amateur, but did shoot enough film on my venerable Nikon FE in the ‘olden days’ that I still remember the basics. I’ve used a Canon SD500 P&S since 2003, so it’s way past time for an upgrade – ditto my Canon Optura 40 SD camcorder. I mostly shoot at gatherings and parties with family/friends (lots of indoor stuff) and on vacation trips (mix of people and landscapes, mostly outdoor).

    My wife always wants more video, and gave me a Sony HDR-CX150 HD camcorder for Christmas. I’m not very impressed with its pretty low-res HD quality (< 2MP), so figured I'd return it to Costco and put the $400 towards a DSLR that handles both stills and 1080p video.

    I considered the new Nikon D3100 until finding it has no external mic input and only mono audio, so ended up with a higher-end T2i kit that has the standard 18-55 kit lens plus a Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 USM zoom. This was a Costco display model, but figured that gives me 90 days to see if I like it and can always return it to buy a brand-new one elsewhere.

    So here's my question: For about the price of the T2i kit with the 2 lenses (also includes Canon bag, SDHC card, and mini-HDMI cable), I could buy a 60D with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 (apparently not USM?). Which would you recommend for my needs? A single zoom is very appealing, so I wouldn't usually have to carry a bag with extra lenses. And while 300mm is nice on occasion, I'd think 135 would be plenty most of the time?

    I've heard good things about the new Sony A55 in terms of video since the translucent mirror design elimihates many of the inherent problems when shooting video with any DSLR (e.g., full-time AF; can use the regular viewfinder vs. just the rear LCD). But Sony doesn't seem to be considered in the same league as Canon or Nikon, and the lens & accessory choices are more limited. Have you ever shot video with an A55? How about quality of stills? Should I even consider it vs. the T2i or 60D?

    Of course, there's also a fourth option: Wait for the T3i which rumors suggest may be Feb or March? (Interestinly, as of a few weeks ago Costco isn't getting any more T2i's, which backs up those rumors…) Maybe you've heard more, but it doesn't sound as if the T3i will offer enough improvements (especially for video) to make it worth the wait?

    Sorry for the length, but I'm definitely in "analysis paralysis" right now and would really value your opinions!

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Rob,

      To be honest with you, I hate all of those lenses but if I had to choose one then I’d go with the 60D kit and the 18-135mm.

      Sony not in the same league? They just took the #2 spot away from Nikon in Europe. They make very good products, their software is what sucks. But if you have Lightroom 3 or something then you’ll be okay. Do you shoot RAW or JPEG.

      I have tested and shot video with the A55: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/08/24/hands-on-sony-a55-a560-and-24mm-f2-za-ssm/ Though this has no video in the posting, the video is great, as are the stills. The only problem is that it’s hard to get an A55 right now.

      I loved the T2i to be quite honest with you. My 24-105mm F/4 L IS lived on it when I reviewed it.

      Hope this helps, come back if you have any more questions.

  • marji

    Thank you for the response. And yes at this time it is either buy the 24-105 and use it on my rebel xti and get the 60d body later, OR get the 60D now to use with the 18-135mm. Which do you think would get better pictures for the next few months until i can afford the other piece. I will buy the fixed 50mm now though with either purchase. (with it being 80mm on my camera, how far away from the subject will i need to be? would i be better served to get a 35mm?) Thanks for the advice on the sigma, i never would have even considered looking outside of the canon family.

    • Chris Gampat

      60D and 50mm F/1.4 then would probably be best, and around 6 feet. The 35mm F/2 can do you well then in that case.

      The Sigma 30mm F/1.4 is another lens designed for APS-C sized sensors. I rarely recommend 3rd party glass, but in this case I will.

  • Nisi

    dear chris

    I am getting 60D soon and thinking of purchasing 18-135mm lens. I will be using my camera for nature photography, i m new to photography.

    Please suggest any other lenses i need to buy.

  • david

    dear Cris

    Iwant to use wide angle end of the zoom ie better that 35mm i wil either purchase a 60d or 7d how good is the 15-85 lens agains 18-135 as i can use my leica f2 90mm and 400 telyt for tel work and the leica macro for close up I have been using a leica for 50 years
    I have used my G% as backup on weddings with its f2 lens
    all though a good camera it only has 35mm wide angle
    i have taken 30,000 picyures in 7 years
    how good is the cannon widw angle zoom

    • Chris Gampat

      It sounds like you’re a professional, David. In which case, I think you’re looking for the wrong lenses. I’d actually recommend that you get the 17-55mm F/2.8 IS EF-S instead.

  • Marty

    I am making the move from a point and shoot to a SLR. I’ve asked a friend,who is a wonderful photographer for advice in choosing the base and the essentials. I am taking several trips this year – the main one to Costa Rica where I really want to get some memorable pictures. Not expecting professional results but just don’t want to be as disappointed as I have been in the psst with the photos I’ve taken. I also want to be able to use the camera in low-light situations at home, ie. family pictures, as well as pics at sporting events. I have my cart loaded at B&H with a 60D, a 18-200 lens, and a 50 mm f/1.8 lens (both lens are Canon). Before I hit purchase I would love to have your opinion about these choices. Just don’t want to spend my limited funds on lens I won’t use immediately. (after I take photography classes!) Thanks for sharing your expertise. Great site!

    • Chris Gampat

      It sounds like you’re all set. What really struck me is that you’re not expecting professional results, most people that want these lenses want top notch images. In which case, the 50mm F/1.8 will actually give it to you.

      You’re all set Marty. If you have any questions, come back and please let me know. Also show us some images.

  • karan

    hi Chris,

    First, Great reviews , really helpful,

    I just wanted to ask what is your opinion about 18-135mm lens ?

    Thank youuuu..

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Karan,

      The same thing I tell everyone else, don’t expect amazing results.

  • Ed

    I’m looking to upgrade from my 40D and am interested in the 7D. But in reviewing info on this camera on-line, I’m seeing that some people have serious problems with getting sharp pics with this camera. For instance, google Darwin Wiggett’s critique — but there have also been hot discussions by many others, for instance on dpreview. It seems that many folks get terrific results from the 7D, while others just get fuzzy pics.

    There are some who say the 7D is a very advanced camera and you can’t expect to get good results with it in just a few hours… but with sufficient experience and skill, and post-processing, it will be great.

    This info bother me and I am wondering what’s up. Are some 7D’s duds? Would the 7D be too much camera for me? Why is it said the 7D is so advanced and complicated and hard to use, but this is not said of cameras like the 5D Mark 2?

    I guess I could go down to my friendly camera dealer and try a 7D, but apparently I won’t be able to properly judge the results until I have some experience, and after diddling in Photoshop.

    In all my reading on the Web, I haven’t found that the issues with the 7D have been resolved one way or the other. So I thought I’d post this message and see if you have some sage comments, Chris.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Ed,

      I’ve used the Canon 7D for almost a year now and have never had a problem with it. Their lenses perhaps had autofocusing issues. It is an advanced camera, but if you’re familiar with the Canon line, the learning curve isn’t terrible.

      The 7D is a major step up from the 5D Mk II in some ways, overall the 5D Mk II still adhere’s to Canon’s old ways in terms of design, ergonomics, button layout, etc. People are more used to it.

      I love my 7D, and even when the 7D Mk II comes out, I’ll have a very hard time letting mine go. I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have other questions and if you do purchase it, please use my links.

  • http://www.mollypeck.com/ Molly

    Hi Chris,

    I only just stumbled upon this site– what a wonderful and thorough resource– thank you. Here’s my dilemma. I am a hobbyist, but I like to have the best tools (that I can afford) for the job, even if the job is “just for fun”. I recently replaced my T1i with a Leica X1, and I have fallen in love with photography all over again– I suddenly remembered what I learned in my photography class almost 20 years ago, using my father’s hand-me-down Nikon F, and I am enjoying slowing down and remembering that I do know how to make informed choices with manual controls.

    BUT– I miss having video capability. I could afford the 5D Mark ii, but just barely, so acquiring lenses would be slow-going. I was pretty happy with the video quality of the T1i, so I’m guessing the 7D will be more than enough to impress me (heck, the 60D would probably be enough to impress me, but I’m very clumsy and hard on my things, so the more rugged build of the 7D seems critical)?

    Does it sound like I’m on track with thinking 7D, or do you think I’ll just wind up wishing I had foregone some restaurant dinners and shoes, and gone for the 5D Mark ii?

    Thank you for your insight. Of course, when I choose, I’ll buy through your link!

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Molly,

      If you’re clumsy (and admitting it is the first step to recovery, hehehe :) ) then go for the 7D because it is more rugged and pick up some good budget lenses: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      The 5D Mk II is too much camera for you and to be honest, I feel that even the 7D may be too much camera. The 60D will be good enough, but I feel that you can grow more with the 7D as you rekindle what you learned in photography.

      Also, I’m sure that you’ll agree with me when I believe you’re trying to say that you, “shoot for fun, but seriously.” Yes?

      Let me know if I’m of any help please. I’d love to answer any more questions.

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  • Caroline

    I’ve read through the vast majority of the comments and responses (I admit I didn’t read through them all, as the night’s a passin’) and am nearing a decision, however, I hope you wouldn’t mind giving me your opinion. I admire that you take great care to respond to each comment’s questions and circumstance. I will certainly be bookmarking your site, and I’ll try to buy through your link. (I tend to shop around looking for lowest price – but Amazon is who I’ve been planning to buy through anyhow!)

    I’ve done some hobby modeling and am looking to get on the photographer side of things. T2i, 60D and 7D all have great video, so I can play around with that however I like with any of them, but in terms of photography, I’m thinking of using the camera to do portraiture, creative indoor concepts (fashion), outdoor shoots, and also shooting nature for my own hobby pursuits (mountains, flying birds, running water…etc). I don’t technically need a professional grade camera since it is still a hobby – but I’m putting money into this because I want as close to breathtaking results as I can get – especially when I’ll be working with models (who I can assume will also want excellent quality pictures) as soon as I get a handle on the camera. This may move into something I can get paid for, but right now I’m really just interested in making some beautiful art for the its own sake, not for the money.

    I am leaning towards the 60D, but there’s also the thought of the T2i (while I learn and build skills) that will give financial leeway to spring for more or better quality lenses upfront (this seems a viable option based on things I’ve read). However, since I’m a part-time working grad student and can really only afford to make a big investment in a camera body once, I’m debating whether it would be better to invest in a 7D and go about picking up lenses as the money comes in?

    Also, any suggestions on which lenses would be good for the sort of photography I’d like to do? (I’ve already added the canon 430 EX II to my shopping list.) Though I’m starting out, I’m a fast learner, and would like to develop a degree of professionalism. I expect photography to be my greatest source of joy for a while, so I don’t mind if it takes some focused time for my skill to match up to the camera.

  • Ed Ng

    I have owned the 60d and although it was a nice camera, I ended up upgrading to the 7d for a few main reasons:
    -Magnesium alloy body
    -Dual digic 4 processors
    -shoots 8fp
    -uses CF cards
    What canon should have done is classify the 7d as the follow up model to the 50d and therefore the 60d as the logical follow up to the T2i. The features of these cameras would have made more sense and indeed would have kept the x0d and xx0d families intact. Just my opinion. In closing, I am extremely happy with my 7d and believe it will go down as one of the all time classic bodies in the long history of canon cameras.

  • Caroline

    Thank you so much! I’ll probably be going the route you suggested! I’ll let you know how it goes! Also, does this website take direct donations?

  • Cathy

    What is your opinion of the Canon 28-200mm lense?

  • http://flickr.com/josephlara85 Joseph

    Hi Chris! I have read almost every post (2 hours spent) and wanted to ask you about which camera should i buy. I’m undecided between the T2i and the 60D. I’ve never had a DSLR. Only P&S, and really cheap ones! I started using my cousin’s Panasonic GF-1 and since then I’ve wanted a good budget/quality DSLR. I plan to shoot all around pics. Portraits/Nature/Action/Macro, you name it. As I said…all around. Video will be mostly of me recording stuff on my guitar (tutorials, original stuff), family reunions and the occasional rock gig. I’ve seen these good deals on B&H of the T2i 18-135mm Kit Lens ($979.99). I want it to last a good 4-5 years and as time passes buy some better lenses, maybe L lenses as I progress. Would you recommend the 60D for its enhanced features or the T2i for its price/perfomance. And I repeat myself…I want an all around camera which can be used for everything. Thanks in advance!

    • Chris Gampat

      60D since you want to move up eventually because you can use it as a back up once you upgrade and the lenses here: http://www.thephoblographer.com/2010/04/16/the-best-budget-lenses/

      35mm, 50mm and 85mm are what I’d most recommend but I also think that in your case maybe the 18-135mm will work. But if you upgrade to full frame later on then that lens is useless because it is EF-s only.

  • Chenoa

    I have a T2i and use a 75-300 lens. I mostly take pictures of soccer games and some wildlife. I’m considering upgrading to the 60D or the 7D, however after reading many reviews, post and comments, I’m still undecided which camera to upgrade too or if I should. Any comments or advice would be great.
    Thank you…

    • Chris Gampat

      Are you a pro or want to be one?

  • http://www.flickr.com/photos/sanjeed/ Quazi Ahmed Hussain

    All the above cameras overburden their sensors with too many megapixels producing higher amount of noise than other bodies. The optimum resolution on 1.6 crop sensor is 12 mp which is why u get the best possible IQ from EOS 450D. Unfortunately Canon management forces their engineers to pack more resolution into sensors in order to make them appeal to common people. Their purpose is nicely served as many newcomers to photography are buying DSLRs. The publicity hype was so enormous that many enthusiast Nikonians also switched and bought 7D. However, all of them became quiet after using it for a while. They reluctantly admitted encountering huge noise in their captures. I’m talking about my enthusiast photographer friends. I am also unhappy with my 50D that contains 15mp. So, I take my serious shots with my 450D. I am sticking to Canon mainly due to its wide array of lenses that offers something to everybody. I couldn’t find it with Nikon despite knowing that their bodies are superior.

    Canon management prefers to play to the gallery rather than real DSLR users. But, like all others, they failed to reverse the law of physics. For the time being their strategy works well for them as far as sales volume is concerned. However, the proverb goes “all the people cannot be fooled for ever”.

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  • Roswell

    OK, Chris, you’ve convinced me. It’s the 7D or bust. (Thanks a gazzillion for all of this, by the way. You’re easing the minds of many troubled souls who have spent weeks researching these cameras).

    So here’s my story … I’m a rank amateur who has his sights on the pro ranks. Not making films or anything grandiose like that, but I am interested in using it to make a living filming events (hopefully not weddings, but who knows), doing some run-n-gun news type stories for non-profits or companies, and corporate gigs (training stuff, testimonials, or product demonstrations, perhaps).

    Now, I have a BIG learning curve for the technical side of shooting DSLR video and I’m under no illusions that I’m going to take this bad boy out of the box and turn into Philip Bloo–er, Chris Gampat. It’s going to take a bleep load of time. So given the enormity of the added gear I’m eventually going to need (audio being at the top of that list), what would be the one lens you would recommend I start with (since frankly, I’m going to have to use one lens for a while as I practice)? Iapologize if you already answered this for someone else. I must admit that I have not read every single post.) Also, any other advise on bare bones, gotta-have-it-gear would be much appreciated (but not expected).

    • Chris Gampat

      I want to tell you the 35mm F/1.4 but I know that the 24-105 L is THE video lens.

      Maybe start with the 35mm and work with that? I appreciate you realizing that becoming a pro isn’t easy. A lot of it is marketing.

  • Seaswho

    I was very close to buying a 7D, but took a closer look at the 60D, which I ended up buying last November. 5000 shots later, I am really loving this camera. It came with a 18-200 lens which quickly became my walk around lens. I have also added a 50mm 1.8 and a Sigma 10-20mm 3.5. I like the size vs the T2i and do not worry about the lack of metal or the slightly faster shooting rate the 7d has. The 60D feels well built and I quickly got used to the button layout. The flip screen is worth the difference in price over the T2i all by itself. I like to capture low and high angle shots and the flip screen makes this a lot easier. The high ISO capabilities are simply awesome as I can shoot in the dark now, well almost. I am very happy with the 60D. Now, which camera will be my backup, a T2i or a 7D?

    • Chris Gampat

      7D would become your main. T2i would be the backup.

  • Roswell

    Thanks, Chris. One more quick question. Do you think it’s better to just buy the 7D body and then invest in one of those lenses you recommended? I’ve heard kit lenses, in general, aren’t worth the money but I wanted to get your thoughts before I went this route.

  • Annette

    Do either of the 7d or the 60d do Black and White photos?

    Sorry I cannot find any information on either of them doing them, is it a case of just getting a filter. Sorry just new to serious photography and keen to take a wide variety of photos.

  • Pranav Bhatt

    I am looking for my first DSLR and I am deciding between T2i, T3i and 60D as all three costs around $100 difference. Mainly I am upgrading from Panasonic FZ35 which is very good to use in daylight. I want to buy a DSLR for good low light capability and I’ll also shoot some video. I am just a casual photographer so at this time looking for a single all round lens and then after start building my lens collection.

    I’ve heard that T2i video is not so great… can you give your thoughts on this?

  • Petroula

    I am looking at the 60D to take photos of my children. What lens do you recommend for indoor portrait work and also for outdoor shots of them running around. Great web site!

  • arnaouty

    im looking forward to buy 600D what do you think guys is it better than 550D or its not worth it? is should invest in lenses

    • Chris Gampat

      Not a major upgrade. Go for the lenses and the T2i instead.

  • Dan Hedgpeth

    Well, great discussion. I opted to upgrade from my T1i to the 60D, sold all my older lens and bought a 17-40mm f4L and a 70-200mm f4L. I kept my 50mm f1.4 as a prime. All I need now is a 300mm or 400mm L prime to complete my kit. Then I’ll start envy-suffering and scheme to buy a MkII. It never stops.

  • George Kumar

    Hi Guys, Thanks for the nice input regarding 60D and 7D.I have been using Kiss x2/450D much satisfied except the kit lens all of a sudden started giving trouble with AF anot able to MF at all. So now I am going for 7D. OR 60D. STILL CAN NOT MADE UP MY MIND.
    I have spent lot of money over these years, what ever you buy, they allways make it better. I n two years 7D could b gonner.But capo deo. Any one really
    change my mind to buy 60D with more lens than 7D with
    the lens which I have before 50mm.?
    I have lots of SD and I have to buy new one for 7D.
    What is the game Canon playing?

    • Chris Gampat

      Why not just get a better lens and a flash? You can create some create images with old cameras still.

      The 7D will be a goner? So you’re telling me that in two years I won’t be able to create the same great images with it that I have already? That makes no sense. It’s the photographer that takes the pictures.

      If you really want to upgrade: 60D to stay amateur and 7D to go pro.

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  • Benj07

    Hi chris! Great informative site u got here! Took me an hour to read thru all the comments. I need ur suggestion. Im a hobbyist and have the 1000d 18-55is, 55-250is, 430ex ii and 50mm 1.8 mkii for 2yrs now. I want to upgrade my gear on a budget but cant decide. I want a 60d/7d and probly get a 24-105 with it or should i just upgrade my lens instead to 24-70L and 70-200 f4 non-is plus a batt grip to balance the 1000d weight? Thanks!

    • Chris Gampat

      60D and the 17-55mm F/2.8 IS would be your best bet honestly if you’re a hobbyist. You can get rid of some of your lenses then.

  • kimmie

    I’m fixing to start my photography classes and have already had paying clients (at a very low rate) to build my portfolio. I’m having a hard time choosing between the 60D and 7D…any suggestions???

    • Chris Gampat

      7D if you want to go pro no questions.

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  • MaryAnne Ortman

    Great info! Very helpful so far! I thought I was all-set to purchase the 60D after great deliberation. To throw a wrench into the mix, I need to decide between the 60D and the T3i now. I was an experienced 35mm film and developed my own black and white back in the day. First “real” camera was the Canon FTb with some nice lenses. Have used a digital Sony DSC-F828 extensively for work in law enforcement. I want a good camera that I can also purchase a couple of good lenses for, to get back into it. So…60D or T3i?

  • Steve

    I am looking for an upgrade, the more I read the more confused I get. I have 3 active boys that I love to photo in various situations. Outdoor sports some at night, and basketball games, which always seems tough for me (gear and lenses mostly). I have an older Rebel XT and have been shooting with kit lenses and I recently bought a 430 EX speedlite flash. It has been a great camera but I am wanting to step up my game a bit. I do like to video some too. We are planning trips to Sea World and D.C, pretty soon. I am far from a pro but I do like to shoot, and have been known to get lucky at times with some really great pics. So the question, 7D or 60D, or the new 3ti? I’m thinking 60D so I can get a good lense or 2. But boy that 7D really looks good. The 5D MII is way too much camera for me, but who would not want one of those. I have shot mostly with my stock 18-55 and the 75-300, which I have grown quite tired of. Should I be looking to purchase a body only or should I shop around for a kit? What lenses would you recommend, I do like to zoom and get close-ups of batting and shooting hoops, actions shots. Most pictures of actions, I would like to be able to blow up to 20 x 30, being the max size. I would like a camera that will be with me for a while and one that I can grow with.

    Thank you for taking the time to answer my question.

    Steve

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Steve, since you’re not a pro I recommend the 60D with the lenses you have already. If anything, I’d tell you to spring for a 70-300mm L but you perhaps can’t afford it in your budget range (which still isn’t totally clear).

      We’ve got this to help you if anything too http://www.thephoblographer.com/2011/02/17/the-phoblographers-guide-to-the-right-canon-lens-for-you/

      Oh, and I’m praying that you’re not using the Automatic modes, otherwise you still have a bit to master in your camera.

      If you do make a purchase, please be sure to use our links and banners to help support the site.

      • Steve

        As far as the Automatic modes go, yes I do still use them, mostly out of laziness. I have taken many pictures in every mode possible and every time I get really involved in photography something always pulls me away. At my age and with my current responsibilities, my retention with anything not job or kid related goes out the window. I know there is still much to learn, or re-learn.
        The “L” lens is a bit pricey, at the moment but I will most certainly rent a few to try out. I am looking for a better all-around lens, any recommendations in the $500 – $600.00 range. I am looking for a single lens that can take a close-up group shot as well as a decent zoom for sports shots.
        Also any easy to remember tips to stay away from the automatic modes would be greatly appreciated.
        Do you have a tip jar? If not, I will definitely purchase future supplies from your links.

        Thanks again,

        Steve

        • Chris Gampat

          Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 is perhaps the best for what you’re going for. But even that won’t be enough far reach at times.

          Tips for staying out of the automatic modes?
          - sports: high iso, high shutter speed
          - portraits: F/4-11

          Also, just keep the camera off of those modes. It’s not always trust worthy.

          We don’t do tip jars. When you make any purchases through Amazon or B&H though and click our links or banners to them first and then make the purchase, we get a small portion of the sale.

        • Steve

          I’m glad I stumbled on to our blog, thanks for the information.
          60D here I come, and I will use your link, thanks again.

          Steve

  • Gadit

    I’m looking for a camera but i dont knw what to buy i’m a beginner and so i wanted to ask you that which one 1 should buy and with which lenses ? I’m totally confused Please help me out :)

  • http://???Here Andy

    Great review… I have always loved canon. After this review i believe I will end up picking up the 60d and i would like to purchase through this website to help out the people who did the review but i only want the body. Is there a way i can only buy the body? Thanks

    • Chris Gampat

      Sure, click our banners on the side first and then make your purchases.

      Everytime you do this, you help the site out.

  • http://www.flickr.com/photos/belovedhoneygirl/collections/ Deborah

    Hello Chris, GREAT phoblog! Love the name, knew I was headed to the right place when I saw it on my Google search! There is an incredible amount of information here and I have read through a lot of what pertains to me. I would like to ask your advice. I am in the position of having to replace my entire kit from scratch because ALL of my equipment was stolen from my car right after a shoot. EVERYTHING from my cold storage drive that NEVER leaves the house EXCEPT that day to the 17″macbook pro, that has, amazingly, been returned to me! No real lead on any else yet, but you never know. To add insult to injury, my ins co is jerking me around royally. So now, after many wonderful friends have donated, I have $3,000- to work with.
    My shooting style is as diverse as my subject matter and I tend to be more journalistic in view using ambient light rather than a more staged approach with flash. Lots of work in LOW light, concerts are a BIG consideration as well as more intimate weddings. I am also spending more time shooting boudoir with both studio and ambient light, indoors and out. As I live in FL, nature is all around and I’m always out capturing tiny moments of it’s beauty in my spare time… when I’m not chasing twin 5 yr olds or shooting my man on stage! And, of course, my rig needs to keep up with it ALL!
    This is a lot to ask for out of so little $, but what would you do?
    Thanks in advance for your time!
    !`D

    • Chris Gampat

      Hey Deb,

      First off, what happened to you sucks big time. I hope the person that stole it all gets severely punished.

      Second, it sounds like you’re shooting pro: so you need the 7D and some primes. I recommend the 28mm F/1.8, 50mm F/1.8 and 85mm F/1.8. Also, what you’re saying doesn’t make sense about flash.

      It is extremely rare for a wedding photographer to not even use flash as a flash can only help your images. If you don’t want the “fake” look that you’re talking about then you’ll need to balance out your shutter speeds, apertures, isos, and flash exposure compensation.

      So in that case, also get a 580 EX II.

      I hope this helps, and if you have flash questions let me know. Also please use our links and banners when purchasing your items.

  • http://www.salvationsisters.com Michelle

    Hi Chris… Thank you so much for all the useful information. I was all set to buy the 50D and now I am considering the 60D. I like that the 50D has a more ruggedized body although I treat my electronics very well. I take photos for my food blog, therefore a lot of documenting in the kitchen and sometimes in low light conditions (leaning towards 50mmF/1.8 and 430 EX II.) I also travel frequently and quite often take photos at night of street scenes, etc. (leaning towards 18-135F/3.5-5.6 IS UD). In this scenario which would you recommend 50D or 60D? Do you like my lens choices?

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  • phil

    I am looking for a camera and am upgrading from 35mm and medium format film cameras. I used to develop my own film and make my own photos in my dark room but really feel it is time to move on. I will be doing mostly photography or at least that is my intention, but having the video capability might come in handy for sure. What is the difference really for me as a semi-pro photographer but mostly doing it for pleasure and not professionally? At some point I may use the camera professionally for a book I intend to make as well. Simply not sure if the upgrade to the 7D will be worth the extra money. Thoughts?

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Phil,

      I’m a semi-pro, but my intention is to make money. However, you’re very serious about your work, and to be quite honest the 60D should be all you’ll need. I’ve tested that camera and it is damn good. The reason why I keep my 7D is because of the faster fps and more advanced AF system.

      If you don’t need that, and it sounds like you don’t, go for the 60D and please use our links and banners for the purchase. If you need more help, stop by and shoot questions at us.

      Hope this helps.

  • Steven Yood

    Hi, Phil,

    Great review at the top and wonderful thread thereafter. I’m going to do astrophotography with this camera. It’s going to have some mods to the UV/IR filter done and it’s going to be afixed to the end of a telescope and left there. I do not anticipate using it for terrestrial shots. I have been leaning towards the T2i since FPS (my exposures will be measured in minutes), an articulating screen and flash options are moot. I find myself wondering, though, whether the more advanced electronics of the 60D or 7D would prove better at handling noise from the chip?
    Any comments on that or any other thoughts on my situation would be greatly appreciated.

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi Steven,

      You shouldn’t have a problem with the T3i if you shoot in RAW and then process the image noise out.

  • Fred

    The 60D is my first DSLR and I am continually impressed with its low-light performance. Last weekend I did some HDR shots at ISO 3200 that were over a minute exposure. There was very little noise in the final RAW images. I also shot some roller derby action at 3200 and was able to shoot at quite quick shutter speeds with a f2.8 lense.

    If low-light photography is crucial the 60D is a great choice.

    The focus system, on the other hand, leaves something to be desired. Mostly I shoot with the center spot only and it doesn’t do well in low light.

    Other than that I’m very happy with the body. I shoot mostly with the 16-35 f2.8 and it’s a spectacular lense on this body.

  • http://www.jmcousinophoto.com Joe C

    I, too, face the dilema of whether to upgrade from the 40D to the 7D. In addition to my 40D, I also own the 30D and the Rebel XT. IF I get the 7D my issue will be whether to sell the 40D and XT or the 30D and XT to help re-coup some of the $$ I would spend if I buy the 7D. I really don’t need movie mode but I understand it rocks on the 7D! But I would love the 19 point AF system as well as the Lighting Optimizer. I don’t do much in the way of sports and I only occasionally do wildlife so am not sure if I need the additional FPS the 7D offers. My primary lenses are the Canon 28-135mm IS 3.5-5.6, the 24-70mm 2.8 L and the 70-300mm 2.8 L and the infamously inexpensive, yet wonderful, Canon 50mm 1.8. I also have a couple 3rd party lenses that I don’t use that much, anymore. One of which is the Sigma 18-55mm 3.5-5.6 which is the closet thing I have to wide angle to shoot landscapes but the lens isn’t that sharp. My Canon G3 takes great landscape shots should I need wide angle. I am currently shooting mostly models, portraits, events, candids and street scenes as well as some family shots.

    Anyone want to offer some guidance? :-)

    • http://www.jmcousinophoto.com Joe C

      p.s. as for flash I own a Canon 430 EX. It serves its purpose but I would like to be better at flash work but I don’t have a studio of any kind.

      • Chris Gampat

        Hey Joe C,

        First off I want to thank you for your comment because this is a question I’ve been wanting to address for a long time.

        The Canon 40D was and still is an amazing camera. It was the camera that paid the bills for many wedding photographers at one time or another. With that said, you should keep the 40D and sell off the 30D, XT, and I also think you should sell the 28-135mm. You’ve got two L lenses, a nifty 50 and 3rd party lenses. If you’re not using the 3rd party lenses, why not sell them too?

        The 7D’s autofocus is remarkable and I really couldn’t have asked for anything more. I rarely use the video function myself, but the ergonomics, image quality, and responsiveness just work so well.

        If you’re shooting models and events, you need a 580 EX II. The 7D will be able to wirelessly control the flashes to give you more lighting elements in your photos. In fact, that’s what I often do: but I also have a fond love of many flash modifiers like the Gary Fong Lightsphere Collapsible, Orbis, Ray Flash and Rogue Flash Benders. I’ve recently added an Interfit beauty dish to the mix as well.

        So that’s my advice. That and when you purchase, please be sure to use our links and banners because it’s how I can afford to keep providing advice to great folks like you.

        If you have any more questions, feel free to ask away, it’s what were here for at The Phoblographer.

        Thanks for reading! :)

        • Joe C

          Thanks for the input Chris! I have seen the flash modifiers. Although I think they make a camera look top heavy they look like they could be worth a try? Thanks for the other input, as well! I am leaning harder in the direction of buying the 7D. Price shot back up to $1700 though so I may chill a bit to see what happens over the next couple months.

          • Chris Gampat

            Not a problem. Flash modifiers make you look more professional actually. As far as waiting goes, that’s your choice. As a guy working in marketing at B&H, id say don’t wait because the prices are only going to go up.

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  • Dbalagna

    Hi I am an architect and do a lot of interior and exterior shots and I also do a lot traveling usually to tropical places. So my camera often takes some abuse from the construction site or weather.
    I do not want to be pro but I enjoy very much taking pictures and I do it seriously I do lots of trials an errors. And play with settings.
    I started with a rebel xti many years ago with kit lenses, got rid of those and got myself a sigma 10-20 mm 1:4.5.6 dc hsm that I like a lot for the architecture, it really helps me capture what I want to say or show. And I also have a canon efs 17-85mm IS USM. That I use for traveling and walking around. With the right filters I like it too. Any suggestion of lenses is welcome as well
    Honestly took me many years to get good results from this camera and I am quite happy now and I almost feel bad about replacing it but I am having exposure and auto focus issues with it. I normally use auto focus and either the AV program or the TV.
    Money aside do you think it is worth the 7d or the 60 d is a great upgrade from my xti?

    • Chris Gampat

      Hi,

      Since you’re shooting in rougher area, you need a 7D. Additionally, I recommend the Tokina 11-16mm F/2.8 for your camera. I’ve tested that lens, and it’s wonderful.

      When you make your purchase, please use our banners and links to keep supporting the site.

      • Dbalagna

        Thanks Chris, if I get the Tokina should I get rid of the sigma? And for a walk around lens is the canon I have a good option or there are better ones? I bought both of them without knowing much at all, they are for sure better than the kit lenses but I do not know if I am missing something here.
        Lastly will the 7d be hard to get use to in comparison with my xti or the learning curve is nott too bad?

        I will use your link and thanks a lot for your help, it is great to receive advice from someone that knows what is talking about

        Diego

  • Aussiemob

    Hi there,

    Thank you for your wonderful blog. I’m so confused. I am upgrading from my canon rebel xt. Nothing professional but love taking pics of sports (tennis,soccer,basketball), kids playing,birds etc. I started off with t3i then after reading your post seriously considered the 60 d mainly for faster shutter, longer battery life, and extra focus point. Big mistake I made was picking up 7d. Oh my.. Shutter n quick focus is addicting BUT must b practical. Question is should I invest in t3i and spend money on lens or go for it with 7d. Currently using 17-85 is and 70-300mm is. I am planning on growing into 7d…slowly that is lol.

  • Tina

    Great article ;o) I am upgrading from the Canon s5 IS to my first DSLR. I am stuck between the t3i and 60D. Price is not a huge issue although I would like the most bang for my buck (who wouldn’t). I shoot a wide range of subjects from my kids sports (baseball, basketball, football, swim), to landscapes, to flowers. I also do some family photos, not professionally, just for friends. It also needs the ability to do video as my dh is deploying and I want to be able to have short videos for him without carrying around extra equipment. I have some basic knowledge but have a lot to learn. I do not want to have to go out and buy a new body in a year. What lens would you recommend as the only lens for now? Would a prime lens work for the sports or would I need zoom for that? I think my head may burst from all the stuff I have read lately. Thanks so much for your help.

  • Premierwithchelle

    Okay, I’m so torn between the 60D and 7D….I am a hobbyist, but willing to sell some of my photos and would like to move into sports photography, specifically swimming, track, and volleyball. My daughter plays all three and I need a camera that can handle those speeds. I will shoot video of events as well. Please help me decide on which camera would work best for me. I have friends that own the 50D, 60D, Tsi2 and the 7D. Any advice is much appreciated!!

    • Anonymous

      Hi Premierwithchelle,

      Since you’re describing yourself more as a hobbyist, I’m going to say that you should go for the 60D and instead get some better glass like the 70-300mm F/4-5.6 L IS lens or the Sigma 70-200mm F/2.8 EX OS HSM. She’s your daughter afterall and you need the best you can get.

      While the 7D’s autofocusing is better, the 60D’s autofocusing will be good enough with those lenses. But for video, I’d recommend something like the 50mm F/1.8, Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 EX, or Canon 24-105mm F/4 L IS.

      If you’re going to make a purchase, please use our links and banners as it helps us to keep this site alive.

      • Michelle

        Awesome, thanks so much!!! If I decided to go at it professionally will I be okay with the 60D? We plan to move to the Dominican Republic within the next 5 years and I want to do some work their for pay! What do you think?

        • Anonymous

          Oh, then you want the 7D with the Canon 17-55mm F/2.8 IS EF-s and a 70-200mm F/2.8 (Sigma or Canon) or the 70-300mm F/4-5.6 L IS by Canon. It will be able to take more abuse for sure.

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  • Sqne

    I am going to buy my first DSLR camera for film and stills.  I am not a pro, don’t want to get paid and only want to film my kids in action.  Film is a big thing for me. 

    After much research I was set on the 60D but would not be able to purchase additional lens etc. If I buy a T2i I could spend the same amount and get an additional lens etc for my kit.

    I am lost and need some direction. 

    Thanks

    D 

    • Chris Gampat

      The T2I with the 18-55mm, 70-300mm and 50mm F1.8 are the best choices for you since you admittedly don’t want to be a pro. If not, I’d say the T3I for the vari-angle screen.

      If you do make a purchase please use our links and banners to continue supporting the site.

  • Jorge H Flores

     Great info. Currently using a 20D but looking to update toward the end of the year.

    • Chris Gampat

      What to?

  • pradeep

     Hello,

    This might be a
    basic basic question.. but i am not 100% clear so thought would ask..

    Why would I want
    to shoot RAW + Jpeg on 60D? does it take longer to process after taking the
    picture in camera? If I am shooting both the formats?

    Why wouldn’t one
    shoot one or the other?

    I normally shoot
    RAW and post process in lightroom, few articles I read pointed that raw images
    are not sharp and jpegs are sharpers, when we process images(export to jpeg) in
    lightroom does it have a same sharpness to ones shot in jpeg in camera?

    Help

    Thanks

    Pradeep

    • Chris Gampat

      People do it to show clients a preview of what they’re getting usually.

  • Kimmer

    Great Blog.  I am debating between the 60D with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens or the 7D with the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens.  As you can tell i am trying to stay within my budget.

    This will be my 1st SLR purchase.  The Camera will be used majority for vacation, travel, and gathering (ex. weddings)

    Thanks so much for your help. 

    • Anonymous

      Hi Kimmer,

      60D with 24-105mm F/4 L IS seems like your best bet. The variable aperture lens on the 7D will render it useless honestly. Plus the build quality of the 24-105mm is amazing. I use mine fairly often still.

      If you do make a purchase, please use our links and banners before you do.

      Thanks, and I hope this helps. If you have other questions, stop on by again and don’t feel nervous to ask.

  • Dnxasii

    Love the blog…. I’m a Nikon D300 shooter.  I cannot find a cost effective Nikon option to Canon’s 70-200 f/4 IS.  I own a handfull of Nikon lenses and don’t have much invested in a equipment.  Does it make any sense to buy a 7D just to shoot the 70-200 f/4 IS?  Thanks for the advice.

    • Anonymous

      Hey, well that depends. What are you shooting exactly?

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

      • Dnxasii

        My Nikon setup is a D300, D7000 and the lens I have that is close to the Canon 70-200 f/4 IS is the Nikon  AF-S VR Zoom-NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED.  It’s pretty good but not near as as sharp as the Canon.  The rest of the lens inventory is all Nikon…the 16-85, 50 f/1.4G, 35 f/1.4G, and 60 f/2.8G Macro.

      • Dnxasii

        My Nikon setup is a D300, D7000 and the lens I have that is close to the Canon 70-200 f/4 IS is the Nikon  AF-S VR Zoom-NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED.  It’s pretty good but not near as as sharp as the Canon.  The rest of the lens inventory is all Nikon…the 16-85, 50 f/1.4G, 35 f/1.4G, and 60 f/2.8G Macro.

        • Anonymous

          My apologies. What I meant, to be more clear, is what exactly are you
          shooting: wildlife? Weddings? Events? Portraits? Kids? Landscapes? If I know
          this information I can do my best to advise you better.

          Chris Gampat,
          Editor in Chief
          The Phoblographer

          • Dnxasii

            Sorry… my misunderstanding.  I’m going to be spending a month in Florida this summer and would like to have a lens to take photographs at the beach that will range from water action to landscapes.  I’m sure there will be a few sunrises in the mix, too.   The lens (to me) is the heart of the system and it doesn’t seem all that unusual to buy a camera body solely to use a particular lens. But hey… after you turn 50 all rational thinking seems to go the way of my memory….!  Thanks for advice!

          • Dnxasii

            Sorry… my misunderstanding.  I’m going to be spending a month in Florida this summer and would like to have a lens to take photographs at the beach that will range from water action to landscapes.  I’m sure there will be a few sunrises in the mix, too.   The lens (to me) is the heart of the system and it doesn’t seem all that unusual to buy a camera body solely to use a particular lens. But hey… after you turn 50 all rational thinking seems to go the way of my memory….!  Thanks for advice!

            • Anonymous

              Then in that case yes, the 7D, 70-200mm F/4 and something like the 50mm
              F/1.4 or Sigma 30mm F/1.4 may be the best choices for you.

              If you do make the purchases, please use our links and banners since we
              helped. Oh, and enjoy Florida; the 7D is weatherproofed enough to resist
              near anything this time of year down there.

              If I can make one more suggestion though, get UV filters to prevent rain or
              anything from affecting the lenses.

              -Chris Gampat
              Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
              Twitter.com/ChrisGampat

              • Dnxasii

                Thanks for help. 

                I spent a lot of time going through various reviews here and at Photozone and Nikon (at least it seems to me) has a real hole in their lens lineup in this range.  Their 70-200 is very good (and very heavy) and expensive and they don’t offer that level of quality in a f/4.

                Thanks again!

                • Anonymous

                  Sure thing. If you have any more questions don’t be a stranger.

                  -Chris Gampat
                  Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
                  Twitter.com/ChrisGampat

        • Anonymous

          My apologies. What I meant, to be more clear, is what exactly are you
          shooting: wildlife? Weddings? Events? Portraits? Kids? Landscapes? If I know
          this information I can do my best to advise you better.

          Chris Gampat,
          Editor in Chief
          The Phoblographer

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  • Linda

    This is by far the best information I’ve seen comparing the 60D and 7D. I’ve been looking at purchasing the 60D for a few months now and just haven’t pulled the trigger. As I’ve done more research I’m beginning to wonder if I should go with the 7D. 

    I don’t know that I’ll ever go pro full time, but I have sold about 150 of my photographs. My main focus is nature, landscape and wildlife. I travel frequently and that is where I do the majority of my shooting. My main subjects are beaches, landscapes, flowers, animals & birds. One of my favorite things to shoot is sunrises and sunsets, but I’m having a hard time mastering the lighting aspect of them.

    I currently own a Rebel XSI. I’ve invested $800 in a Canon wide angle lens, 10-22mm and I’d really like to be able to continue to use that. The other lenses I have are the kit lenses 18-55mm & 55-250. I’ve never taken a class before but I have a natural eye for framing the subject, positioning, etc. I currently do a lot with manual focus, but in the auto scene mode because I have yet to master the use of manual mode or Aperture priority. My main point here is that I’m still a very basic user with a lot to learn about my camera, but have been very successful so far with just using the basic features. 

    I plan to continue selling my photos. I feel like there is just a different look between what a professional landscape photographer does and what I do. I’m trying to figure out if it is that they have a better camera and that makes the images better, or if it is the use of all the features on the camera that I’m not currently using that makes a difference.

    I’m in a bit of a time crunch for making a decision on my purchase. In 3 & 1/2 months I’m going on a 3 & 1/2 week trip to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. These are places I will probably only visit once in my lifetime so I want to make sure that I am the best prepared to take incredible photos that I can be, because I hope to sell many of them. In your experience should I focus more on learning photography and the use of my current camera, or should I upgrade? I guess what I really want to know is if the image quality and look is that much different between a Rebel and a 60D or 7D. I’m not necessarily concerned about the money, I just want to make sure it makes sense to spend it. 

    Thanks for all of your very valuable information and I look forward to your input. Whatever I decide to purchase, if anything, I will definitely go through your site. 

    • Anonymous

      Hi Linda,

      Thanks for the kind words. The you won’t be able to take full advantage of the XSi unless you get better lenses. For example, Canon L glass. I’d recommend the 70-200mm F/4 L IS and 17-55mm F/2.8 EF-S USM if you want to stay with the Rebel. The XSi can surely take wonderful images if you just master the metering and have better lenses. You should also consider a graduated neutral density filter.

      The image quality between the 60D and Rebel aren’t too much different. The 7D really shines when using high ISOs.

      With this said though, the tilting LCD screen of the 60D will make shooting on a tripod much easier for you.

      Either way though, if you do make a purchase I recommend not only springing for those lenses, but also doing a course in Photoshop or Lightroom to learn how you can turn every single image you shoot into a piece of art.

      I hope this helps Linda, if you have any other questions please come back.

      • Linda

        Great info. Thank you. I think I’ll take a few classes and maybe get a new lens or 2 before I look at upgrading the camera. Very helpful.

        • Anonymous

          Lenses are everything to me. They’re why I won’t upgrade to a 5D Mk III or
          7D Mk II.

          Chris Gampat,
          Editor in Chief
          The Phoblographer

  • Joe

    Thanks for taking the time to try and help everyone make an informed decission. I have a question for you, maybe you could help me out. This is going to be my first DSLR purchase, however I am not new to photography. I graduated from the Ft Laud Art Inst way back in 1997, and did a stint as a freelance photographer for both the AP as well as a nationally published Nascar magazine. After graduating I purchased a Canon EOS 1n film camera, a Canon EF 70-200 1:2.8 L ultrasonic lens, a Canon EF 28-105 1:3.5-4.5 ultrasonic lens, a Canon EF extender 1.4x, and a 550ex speedlight Flash. I still have it all even though I have not shot anything professionally in a few years now. I was looking at both the 60d and 7d, I know the better choice would be the 7d, but at almost double the cost, I just don’t see it fitting in to my budget any time soon. With the equipment I currently own will the 60d be a let down for me, or do you feel it would be sufficient? At this point in my life I doubt I can back in to professional photography as much as I would love to, but that was all before I had kids, lol. I would mostly be using it to photograph my sons football games, and maybe trying to get in to shooting a little stock photography.I would also like to get some high def vid of them playing too.  I thought about selling the EOS 1n but the resale value on it has fallen through the floor, I would be lucky to get 1/10th of what I paid for it. Anyway, I guess what I am asking is will I be disappointed with getting the 60d over the 7d? Thanks again for the time and effort you have put in here to help everyone.

    • Anonymous

      Hi Joe,

      If you’re shooting sports, the 7D is honestly the better choice for you
      because of the far more advanced tracking system. However, since you’re
      experienced and if you’re confident enough in your abilities, you can go
      with the 60D and the 70-200 L. You’ll probably want a monopod though since
      you’re citing that your version doesn’t have IS.

      For shooting stock, the 60D should be able to wirelessly trigger your flash
      via an infrared signal.

      With all this said though, you get what you pay for with the 7D: better high
      ISOs, faster processing of images due to the dual cores, faster fps, one of
      the best AF systems I’ve seen, a tougher body, and a better viewfinder.

      When it comes to video though, the 60D is better ergonomically, but has
      still hold its own in stills.

      I hope this helps and gives you enough information. If you do decide to make
      a purchase, please use our links and banners to do so, it helps to support
      the site.

      If you have any other questions, please come back.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

      • Joe

        Thanks so much for the quick reply. I already have a Bogen  monopod, I found it to be quite beneficial when using the bigger heavier lenses. Looks like I may hold off then for a bit, see if I can scrape up the extra coin to get the 7D, I just don’t want to regret it later. Thanks again for the advice, and when I am ready to get it I will be sure to go through your links.

  • Pingback: CanonWatch | Blog | Canon 60D? T2i? or 7D?

  • Anonymous

     
    Thanks for the info on the camera’s. I have decided on the Canon 7d however, the lens is another story –I use to shoot with a 35-105 on my old f1 –have a digital right now but nothing to write about.  I shoot outdoor plant shots, some action, wildlife and close ups –I do want a variable lens with image stabilizer.  –The range of the lens would be about what I use to use before –35-105 -any suggestions-price range up to $800 –I thought about the 70-200mm F/2.8 –seems to be over my budget –thanks mike

    • Anonymous

      Hi Mike,

      Consider the 70-200mm F/4 L, 24-105mm F4, or the Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8. To be
      honest though, what it sounds like you really need is either to 100mm F/2.8
      L IS or 100mm F/2.8 without IS. I know those aren’t zooms, but those
      honestly sound best for you unless you go for the 70-200mm F4.

      If you make a purchase, please use our links and banners to help support the
      site.

      Thanks,
      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/ChrisGampat

  • Julie in KC

    Hello!!! I’m an amateur who has experience with 35mm film cameras (so I get shutter speed, aperture, etc. to some degree) but no experience with digital SLR cameras. Am debating between the T2i and 60D as I want to take classes and learn more. What I really want to do is shoot great photos of my kiddos. I love the look when its a close up of the kid and the background is blurred. What camera (and lenses) would you recommend? Maybe tiered in terms of priority as I won’t be able to buy more than one or two lenses at first but hope to build up. :)

    • Anonymous

      Hi Julie, you’re most likely going to need to spring for the Canon 50mm F/1.8 and the Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 EX. Those lenses will do you the best. I’d also recommend the 60D’s better autofocusing to keep up with the kids moving around.

      If you make a purchase, please use our links and banners first to help support the site.

  • http://www.facebook.com/julie.plough Julie Smith Plough

    Thank you for the comments on the diffrences I have a canon 20d and was leaning to th 7D and a friedn go the 60d and was trying to figure out what was best  I like to take pictures at Nascar races and I do like have a sturdier body thank I am now going to save and get the 7d 

    • Anonymous

      Hi Julie,

      Yes, that is a much, much better choice. When you make the purchase, please use our links and banners first to help keep the site alive.

      Thanks,

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/ChrisGampat

  • Jesse Hassingham

    Hey Chris, loving this thread! Right so here I am, professional photographer that needs to do some serious upgrading as I’m falling with the times. Already thrown away my 5D mki and now left with a 50D. Now my thoughts are should I upgrade to a 60D barely loosing a penny as a temporary upgrade till I’m ready to fork out the extra cash on the 7D or 5D mkii or should I actually bite the gun get a 7D and forget I ever wanted to buy a 5D mkii in the near future? 

    How bad is the build quality on these 60D’s? I mean I’ve seen the camera. But working professionally, banging and pranging it about, will it last? I’ve been recommended by 2 pro’s (nikon users) to keep my 50D till the next pro range camera/s comes out late 2011 and just keep renting 5D’s and 7D’s when need be. 

    One last thing on the 60D, do you reckon it’s price value will drop drastically like the 50D did?

    Appreciate what your doing here and look forward to your response :)

    • Anonymous

      Hi,

      This all depends on your needs. First off, the 5D mk II and 7D are what you should be looking at. If the 5D Mk II fulfills all of your current needs, go for it. I need both. To be honest with you, I want to tell you to get the 5D mk II. When the Mk 3 comes out, you will still be able to shoot great images with the 2.

      The Mk II focusing isn’t as good as the 7D’s though. We’ve got a comparison posting comparing the two for weddings and why they compliment each other.
      In the end, it depends on your needs. Do you need full frame? Then go with the Mk II. The 7D will most likely be replaced next year as well. But I would actually tell you to spring for the Mk II. I love that camera to death.

      If you choose to make a purchase, please use our links and banners to help support the site.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

    • Anonymous

      Also the 60D was designed to not have as good build as the 7D and 5D mk II.
      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • Gail1291

    Hey, how are you?

    I was wondering, I just have a point & shoot Canon SD 1400. I am looking to step up quite a bit to a T2i for taking picture of my children. Because of the price I am wondering if there is a camera under this price range where I may get just as good of a pic?
    Appreciate your help…..
     

  • Gail1291

    Hey, how are you?

    I was wondering, I just have a point & shoot Canon SD 1400. I am looking to step up quite a bit to a T2i for taking picture of my children. Because of the price I am wondering if there is a camera under this price range where I may get just as good of a pic?
    Appreciate your help…..
     

    • Anonymous

      Consider the Sony NEX cameras for snapping pics of the tikes. NEX C3 and NEX 5 get my vote.

      Please use our links and banners before purchasing.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • jtc

    Ok, maybe I don’t get it, 
    I would say i’m a little more then amateur (minored in Photography when digital was not in the class schedules) So I haven’t upgraded to a digital SLR and been using my ELPH for all my digital needs, Anyway I test drove my brother-inlaws 60D camera on a trip and really was impressed with what came out. So now I’m wanting a 60D but can’t figure out really what makes it better then its cheeper T2i. I never care about features on a camera and really don’t ever end up using high end features or better continuos shutter speeds, nice too have but not worth the $400 more.So is the 60D going to take a straight up better picture of a tree on a typical cloudy day or sunny day then a rebel T2i? Basally does a 60D have have a better engine or does it just have more chrome or ground effects.   

    • Anonymous

      The 60D’s strengths lie in the build quality, better ergonomics, tilting screen, creative filters, faster frame rate, wireless flash control and improved autofocus.

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/ChrisGampat

  • Mike

    I own a EOS 550d, 24-105 f/4L, 50mm f/1.8 II and a 580EX II. Photography is becoming a serious hobby for me and has also become a part side line while I am studying. I really do want to upgrade to a better body but I am torn between the two. The 60d has got nice features that the 7d doesn’t have like the art filters (which I would have a lot of fun using especially the miniature effect) and in-camera RAW processing with creative filters (which can save me time from editing and converting) and the tilt-able LCD (which I think I would not really need). However the 7d has a better body, faster fps, better image quality, better AF system and takes excellent video as well (videos good just like my 550d). I’ve tried out both the 60d and the 7d but I need to find a dealbreaker between the two. 

    I’m also worried that when the 7d mkII comes out approx. next year that the features of the 60d will also be in it as well.

    Hoping for a reponse,
    Mike

    • Mike

      I forgot to mention that I am an all-around photographer. I do street, sport, wildlife, event (weddings, parties, etc.) short films (school projects). Not professionally nor as my major in college. Just a talent that I have and one that many appreciate and hire. :)

      • Anonymous

        Hey Mike,

        Thanks for the comments and clarity on what you do in order for me to help you.

        To be quite honest with you, it sounds like you’ll NEED the 7D. Sure the 60D has in camera filters, but you’re a student. Before you even consider using those, you really should learn to do them yourself first and embrace Lightrooms plugins and presets to achieve those looks. This way, you’ll understand what needs to be done and you’ll understand color theory and exposure much better.

        Plus if you’re shooting all of those events, you’ll need the top of the line focusing and build quality. While the 60D is good, the 7D will be great for you for films, moving subjects (like wildlife and wildlife at parties) and overall the 7D will always astound you. While I shoot with my 5D Mk II mostly, whenever I pick up my 7D I am always amazed that it can take the pictures that it does.

        Hope this helps Mike. If you have other questions, feel free to ask. Also please be sure to use my links and banners before purchasing.

        -Chris Gampat
        Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
        Twitter.com/ChrisGampat
        Chrisgampat.tumblr.com

  • Jmetabe

    Chris,
    I’ve read through just about every post and was wondering if you could offer me some advise? I’m looking to start taking photographs on a part time pro basis after a 10 year hiatus. My dslr is completely out of date and other than my knowledge of depth of field and lighting I’m feeling out of the loop. What would make a good starter/future back up camera for portraits specializing in families and children? Also what canon lenses would provide the greatest depth of field for said scenario? Thanks in advance!

    Ps I’m looking between the t3i, 6d, and 7d… But would prefer to stay as budget friendly as possible.
    Thanks again!

    • Anonymous

      From the sound of it you’re best off going with the 7D, the Canon 50mm f1.4, and the Canon 17-55mm f2.8 EF-s. Note though that if you want to go full frame later on, the 17-55mm will be useless except on your 7D because it has a cropped sensor.

      Also, I’d recommend a 580 EX II flash or a 5-in-1 reflector from Impact carried at B&H Photo.

      If you do make a purchase, please use our links and banners to help support the site. If you have any other questions, also feel free to ask.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • Yoyo

    So can any SLR’s get away with green screen 4:2:2 yet?

    • Anonymous

      No I don’t believe they can.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • Sharon

    Hi Chris,

    If information on your blog is helping untersstand the minefield of not only what camera to by but more importantly allowing me to understand the the type of lense you use is critical

    I am thinking of purchasing the 60D. Had an old Olympus SLR years ago,  currently have a snap and Shoot Canon  G12 really miss SLR.. My main usage is for landscapes. Quite used to G12. My undestanding of SLR lenses is quite limited would 17-55mm give me a similar range as the G12. what other lenses would you recommend for the 60D .

    • Anonymous

      Hi Sharon,

      You’re also looking for something like the Tokina 11-16mm f2.8. If you want the range of the G12, go for Canon 24-105mm f4 L IS.

      I hope that helps. Please use our links and banners if you make a purchase and feel free to ask any other questions.

      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
      The Phoblographer on Google +

  • http://www.facebook.com/Simba.is.here Ziheng Wang

    Hello, Mr.
    I am a student who want to make own film. I saved 2000 dollars for buying equipment. 60d and 7d, which one you would like to recommond to me? 
    Thanks 

    • Anonymous

      60D, hands down for your budget. Do you have lenses and accessories already?
      If you make a purchase, please use my links and banners.

      Chris Gampat,
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

      • http://www.facebook.com/Simba.is.here Ziheng Wang

        Thank you for you reply, 
        I don’t have any lenses yet. 

        • Anonymous

          Canon’s 50mm f1.8 and Sigma 30mm f1.4 are excellent choices

          Chris Gampat,
          Editor in Chief
          The Phoblographer

  • Martin

    Hi Chris,

    I really appreciate this article and all of the help/input you’ve been giving! I am a filmmaking student who’s trying to get a nice DSLR camera primarily for making movies but also for stills. I’ve never owned a DSLR camera but have worked with the 5d. My budget is pretty limited as I only want to spend about $1500 on the camera + lenses.  I am leaning towards the 60D just because of price. Do you think that is a good choice? Any recommendations on affordable lenses for filmmaking? Also – I’ve heard rumors from other students about a new Canon coming out next year. Any reason to wait for it? 

    Thanks for everything!

    • Chris Gampat

      For your purposes, you only need the T3I and a couple of lenses. Canon’s 50mm f1.8, 85mm f1.8 and 28mm f1.8 are some of the best choices for you along with the kit zoom lens.

      There is no need for you to wait. It won’t be something that you’ll be using for a while. I was like you a couple of years back and know exactly what you’re facing. Invest the extra money in lighting. Photogenic’s CL500 is a great affordable choice, we reviewed it on the site.

      If you’re making a purchase, please support us by using our links and banners. And if you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

  • Courtney

    Hi,
    I’m not sure if it’s too late to comment, but i have been looking into purchasing a new camera, and I just had a few questions.
    I’ve had the canon rebel xsi for about 3 years, and I am really into photography. I have the Tamron 18-300mm lens, which I would like to continue using, as it’s really multifunctional, but I want to upgrade my camera body. I take mostly portrait photos, and have done some family shots and baby shots for christmas cards etc, and tons of macro shots, and landspace shots.  Of the three cameras mentioned above, which would make the most sense for me to purchase?

    • Anonymous

      Hi Courtney,

      Your best bet would be the 60D. A T2i and T3i wouldn’t make sense since you use a Rebel, but the 60D will give you lots of flexibility and do it in a good package as well. The 7D would be overkill for you.

      I’d recommend getting new lenses too though. The 50mm f1.8 is a popular step up lens.

      If you make a purchase, please use our links and banners to help support the site.

  • Peter

    I used to do some amature B/W photography on a Rebel 2000 back in the film day. Which camera and suitable lens would be best for doing B/W photos ?  Mainly want to shoot in low loight and people/portrait type photos?  Cost is really not the issue …..looking at B/W quality and ease of camera usage. Any comments at all would be helpful…. Thank you    Peter

    • Anonymous

      Hi Peter,

      It sounds like you don’t want to shoot RAW at all. In that case the Rebel T3I and Canon 28mm f1.8 will be your best bet, being nearly a 50mm equivalent. Or try the 50mm f1.8 being an 80mm equivalent and much closer to the portrait focal length you may want.

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • Ceazarjay23

    Hi, this is a very informative blog! And a very good discussion with all the comments. Credits for replying on almost every question!

    I am too looking for an upgrade. I currently have a canon 450d, with 18-55mm kit lens. Which I bought around may 2009.I invested on the lighting side of photography, off camera flash specifically. I bought first a sunpak flash which has stopped working after 6 months of use. I also have the 50mm 1.8 lens, and then bought 430ex II + 70-200mm 2.8L last summer. I was shocked and impressed with the L quality lens. I don’t really mind IS since I can use tripod and i do shoot with flash.
    I shoot mostly portraits with good landscapes at the background. I am feeling quite crippled with the ISO capabilities of the 450d and most of all the small viewfinder!!! I am struggling with focusing in low light.

    I’m leaning more on my decision on the the 7d. I want a better ISO capability and focusing on low light. Both 60d and 7d have better viewfinders than the 450d. But I am worried about the age of the 7d when I put into mind the 60d. I learned already that lenses are more worth investing than cameras. But right now I feel the limitations of current camera and want to get rid of it.

    Investing on the 60d will give me the advantage of using my current SD cards though and the swivel screen as I love doing street photography too. I am fond of using the center focus dot and reframe. The 60d will give extra budget for a lens too so I am very confused. I’m looking to purchase either on spring 2012. I just want to make this investment as worth as possible.

    Thanks!

    • Chris Gampat

      Hey there,

      First off, never focus and recompose. You throw off the plane of focus.

      Second, the 60D sounds best for you. Lots of focusing point, wireless flash control, and SD card usage.

      Plus using the LCD to compose on a tripod will also work well for you.

      If you have any other questions, please let me know. And also please use my links and banners when making a choice before you purchase.

  • Wendi

    Hi Chris,

    I’m brand new to DSLR.  My goal is to get a DSLR Canon that will give me good sports pics, without being too advanced and becoming more frustrating than fun.  I do plan on taking a class, regardless of the model purchased.  All I want to do is get some great pictures of my daughters & teammates, cheering, Soccer & Basketball.  I thought I was sold on the T2i with a lens upgrade, but after reading your reviews, I’m doubting my decision based on your “slow auto focus” comments.  

    For financial restrictions alone, there’s no questions I’ll be an ebay buyer for this first DSLR & lens.  What I’m finding is that the 7D & 60D Kits are going for about the same price(used).  60D’s are selling over MSRP, and the 7D’s are selling at about 50%.  Based on Canonusa.com.  So they are both coming in around $1000 – $1500.  At that price, logic tells me to get the 7D, but I don’t want it to be too advanced for me.

    What lenses would you suggest for either camera, for outdoor soccer & indoor basektball?

    Keep in mind I am a 100% DLSR beginner. 

    • Anonymous

      Hi Wendy,

      First off, if you’re going to purchase from eBay, click my banner first.
      For what you need, the 60D would be best for you set to the sports mode. Additionally, you’ll need the Canon 70-300mm for the best results at the price point that you’re looking for. Though you’re going to have trouble with indoor sports at times. For that, Sigma and Tamron both make 70-200mm f2.8 lenses that you may want to consider.

      Lastly, the MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR thing that you’ll need to invest in is photography lessons. No gear in the world will help you to take better photos unless you know the basics; any no marketing in the world from Canon or Nikon should sway you to think so.

      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
      The Phoblographer on Google +
      The Phoblographer on Tumblr

  • Enice128

    I’ve had my xsi now for bout 2 years but feel like i need “more”. my daughter is 1 1/2 years young now & it’s time to step up to a camera w video. Even though I will still be using more as a still camera & I do shoot sports as a hobby (along w chasing my daughter all over the place), I am torn btwn the t3i, 60d or just upgrading my lenses. About a year ago I picked up a 50mm 1.8 prime which has been the best investment I ever made plus it’s made me a much better shooter. Money is an issue but if I’m gonna decide on the t3i then I can pull the trigger on the 60d but def NOT the 7d. I really do not want to upgrade my body for a while next time so my next move after this will be in the direction of lenses. But Which body should I do ?

    • Anonymous

      You sound perfect for the 60D and then something else later on in terms of lenses depending on subject matter.

      If you make a purchase please use my links and banners since I helped. And if you have other questions, feel free to pitch them.

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief
      The Phoblographer

  • Indeedgypsy

    Hi there.
    I’ve been a Nikon user for a while. I’m nowhere near being a professional, but I do consider photography to be one of my passionate hobbies. Meaning, I do this a lot. I wanted to switch to a Canon, but I wasn’t really sure where to look into. I’ve used Nikon D40 for a while. I was looking into getting either a T2i, or a 60D. I was hoping maybe you can suggest something for me?
    Thanks.
    -Cristina

    • Anonymous

      What subject matter are you photographing?

      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
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      • Indeedgypsy

        I do a lot of portraits, and a couple of events. Nothing major though, like University or gathering types of events. Mostly portraits, though. Sometimes I’ll do landscapes, but not very often. Thank you for getting back to me so quickly! 

        • Anonymous

          60D sounds like what you’ll want with a 430 EX II flash.

          *-Chris Gampat*
          Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
          Twitter.com/Phoblographer
          Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
          The Phoblographer on Google +
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          • Indeedgypsy

            Thank you very much for your help.

        • Anonymous

          Please use my links and banners when purchasing.

          *-Chris Gampat*
          Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
          Twitter.com/Phoblographer
          Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
          The Phoblographer on Google +
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  • Cecilia

    Dear Chris:

    I have always used a Hasselblad and now it is getting really difficult to compete with how fast is to finish a job and give the pictures to the clients with a digital camera. I am thinking in buying a 7D. Which lenses do you recommend me that are close to the quality of the Hasselblad? I don’t have a big budget, will like to buy a couple of lenses.

    Thank you very much for your help.

    • ChrisGampat

      Hi,

      It would help if I knew what budget you’re working with and what subject matter you shoot. But for the most part, you’re looking at all prime lenses.
      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
      The Phoblographer on Google +
      The Phoblographer on Tumblr

      • Cecilia

        Hello Chris, basically Portraits with external flashes but also porTraits in interiors with no flash. I use the camara to make reproductions of paintings as well.

        Thank you for your advice

        • ChrisGampat

          Go for the Canon 85mm f1.8, 50mm f1.4, and 28mm f1.8.

          Or the Sigma 30mm f1.4, 50mm f1.4 and 24mm f1.8.

          And if you make a decision, please use my links and banners to make a purchase. It helps keep the site alive.

          *-Chris Gampat*
          Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
          Twitter.com/Phoblographer
          Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer
          The Phoblographer on Google +
          The Phoblographer on Tumblr

          • Cecilia

            Thank you very much. With all these lenses will you choose a 60d?

            • ChrisGampat

              Any of the cameras will rock with those lenses.

              -Chris Gampat
              Editor in Chief
              The Phoblographer

              • Cecilia

                Chris:

                Thank you very much! I used your advice and bought a Carl Zeiss 50mm 1.4 and a Bower 14 mm 2.8 (which I have to still try before keeping it). Instead of a D7 I bought a refurbished Nikon D7000 for the almost cero noise image in the dark areas.

                I will recommend everybody to visit your site and buy through it.
                Thanks,
                Cecilia

                • ChrisGampat

                  I want you to know that you’ve made my day by coming back and telling me that my advice really helped. Myself and the staff here try very hard to do that.

                  Thanks for the kind words, Cecilia.

                  -Chris Gampat
                  Editor in Chief
                  The Phoblographer

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  • Jeryzkyd

    Great options, but you should look into adding the pentax k5, its a great camera which is def overlooked, sensor is equivalent or better then these cameras you listed, i have to be straight, i have always been a canon user from my first cam in 1989 Canon AE-1 , later 20D then 40d which I sold about 1 year ago, i recntly purchased the K5 and love it.
    A few reasons:
    Water sealed magnesium body and (wr) lenses
    Easy access to menu options, Raw button
    Magnesium alloy body
    IS shake reduction, sensor based not lens based.
    Iso range 80-12800 (51200 expanded)

  • Tylerbirkeland

    Hey what’s up? Soooo, I currently do not own a good camera (period). I’ve always been in love with taking photos though. I want and am ready to start taking great photos! Now, so I have no budget to follow. I will be using it for everything indoor, outdoor, sports, family, etc etc.. 60d or 7d is the question? Also, what lenses, do I need? I don’t want to buy the 60 because of price then next year regretting it.

    • ChrisGampat

      Hi there,

      First off, what you’re saying about the 60D is buyer envy rubbish. So what if you don’t have the latest gear?

      This is the DSLR world, the way that you upgrade primarily now is by getting new lenses and accessories…not buying a new camera every 6 months.
      With that said, either one will be good but the 7D is a better choice if you really plan to get serious about it. I will also recommend either:
      - Canon 85mm f1.8
      - Canon 50mm f1.8
      - Canon 28mm f1.8

      Or

      The Tamron 17-50mm f2.8 VC lens.

      We have reviews on nearly all those lenses on the site here except for the 28mm. Just check out reviews index up top and then click on lenses.

      If you decide to make a purchase, please use our links and banners right before you buy. It helps to keep the site supported because we get a small
      commission from the sales.

      And feel free to come back if you need more info.

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief
      ThePhoblographer.com

  • BIG D

    Hi Chris, first of all, this article is a great read. Thank goodness I found this, as I’ve been having a hard time choosing between Canon 60D or a 7D to upgrade. I’ve had a Canon EOS Rebel T1i or 500D for about 16-18 months now and I’ve loved it.  It came with the kit lens 18-55mm and I’ve used that for the first 2 months casually until my friends who were also photographers recommended me the 50mm f/1.8 II lens since I’ve started shooting portraits. So after that I’ve only used the 50mm ever since and sold the kit lens.  I’m nowhere near PRO as I still have plenty to learn, but I do want to move up a level. I shoot portraits 90% of the time whether it’s paid or not, and sometimes I do landscape as well, but just as a hobby. I know that investing on a good lens (I’m planning on purchasing 35mm, 50mm f/1.4 or f/1.2 L, 85mm, and also 70-200mm f/2.8 but not in the future) is a better option but throughout these past several months, I’ve also grown into filmmaking with a group of friends. We’ve done music videos, skits, interviews, etc. Now here’s the hard part, my heart has always been on the side of the 60D for a while now since I’ve decided to upgrade for manual-settings purposes that the T1i couldn’t do. But I’m still unsure if I’m making the right choice, so 7D usually comes to mind. I like 60D not only because of the swivel-screen, but for the manual-audio recording which will come in handy with a rode mic or any zoom recorder, and also wireless triggering for external flash. However, I also like the 7D for it’s weather-sealed, also has wireless triggering for flash, and is faster with 8fps compared to 5.3fps, even though it has no swivel-screen. I’ve used 7D before as my friend owns one. I like the feel of it, except it’s really heavy especially with the body grip, and I’ve experienced that the batteries were overheating quickly when I’m recording a video, thus stopping the video being recorded which is really annoying. Some told me to upgrade to a full-frame which would be the 5D MKII, but I still think that 60D or 7D would be a better option, as the only thing I like about the 5D is the full frame. My budget is a little above $1k, and I just want to get something that will last me until I finally upgrade to a full frame, perhaps a 5D MKIII, 1DX, or even a Nikon D4, which won’t happen until after a very long time. I’ve done a lot of research on both cameras, I think about 60D as a better choice for both photography and filmmaking, but like you said, if going for pro is a main goal, then 7D it is. Can you help me make the right choice without having any doubt or regret, Chris? Thank You.

    • ChrisGampat

      Hi Big D,

      Thanks for visiting the site and the kind words.

      Now take into consideration what I’m about to tell you: you need a 5D Mk II. Not the Mk III, not the 7D, not the 60D.

      The Mk II is the best for videographers of these cameras. Not only that, but it is also the best for portraits. The video quality of the other two can be good, but can’t match the Mk II.

      If you wanted to just go for portraits though, I would tell you to spring for the 7D and also consider a flash of some sort.

      But in all honesty, go for the 5D mk II and don’t look back.

      If you have any other questions, come back and ask. Please use our links and banners right before you purchase as well because they help to support the site.

      Thanks and good luck!

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief
      ThePhoblographer.com

      • BIG D

        I appreciate the quick response. I’ve never really thought of getting a 5D MKII just yet, especially since I think it’s too early and I’m kind of in a budget too, but your response really opened my eyes. I already have the money for a D7000 and will most likely buy a battery grip for it too. 5DMKII is still on the $2k range which is kind of out of my range. I was planning on building up on the good lenses after I upgrade the camera to a Semi-Pro first, but I guess the 5DMKII is really a BIG STEP for me. I’ll look more into the idea as the time goes by, and hope that I earn enough money from work to buy it before the end of summer. Thank you so much, Chris.

    • BIG D

      Nikon D7000 also isn’t looking too far as an upgrade other than the two. I’m a Canon guy, but like I said before, I want to get something that I won’t end up regretting later on. I want something that will last with me for a while until I upgrade again. 

      I’m also planning on getting a 580exII flash or even a Yuongnuo flash as soon as I get over this camera upgrade crisis.

  • gatocasero

    Hi, I just have this question, I’m painter and I’m looking for a good camera to do a really good shot of my paintings, Do you think with the T2i would be enough? Thank you very much. 

    • ChrisGampat

      I don’t see why it wouldn’t be to be very honest. When it comes to shooting paintings, your light is the most critical issue.

      -Chris Gampat
      Editor in Chief
      ThePhoblographer.com

      • gatocasero

        Thank you very much! Great website by the way. 

      • gatocasero

        Thank you very much! Great website by the way. 

  • Phillip

    Hi, I want to buy a new camera for photography and for video as well.. I know about the manual audio rec level and about the tilty-swively Screen, but the thing I’m interested in is overheating… I heard that 7D overheats more than 60D… Is that true? Thanks, Phillip

  • Conla

    HELP! I cannot choose!
    I had canon 20d that lasted me a good 6yrs.
    Still stuck in the 60 d vs 7 d vs 7000 d debate.
    I do photog. for relax, pics of kids, wildlife and abit landscape (living in africa)
    First ?: is cheeper body and better glasses better then good body and 1×1 glass upgrade?
    2? Refubish bodies are condemmed in my part of the world, is it true?
    3? My wife like to steal my camera, is the 7′s not to heavy for a woman?
    4? Lots of noise about 70d soon … Must i wait one month?
    . Why so many choices in life???? Companies should keep things simple!

    • ChrisGampat

      Canon 60D with the Tamron 17-55mm f2.8 will solve all your problems and is the answer to all of your questions.

      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer

      • Conla

        My kind of guy! Keep it simple and short?
        Why do you suggest the tamronvs canon 40mm? V4m or just versatile?

        • ChrisGampat

          versatility.

          If you make a purchase, please use our links and banners because it helps to support the site.

          *-Chris Gampat*
          Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
          Twitter.com/Phoblographer
          Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer

      • Conla

        Again thanks chris. After 2 days spending on thephlobo.com this is what it came down to …
        Canon 60 d
        Tamron 17-50 f2.8 (?is it worth to spend x-tra on vc?)
        Tamron 70-300 f4 vc
        Canon 50 f1.4

        Does this sound fair/ok or insane?

        • ChrisGampat

          I really recommend the VC actually.

          Seems like that can work for you unless you try something like a Sigma 30mm f1.4.

          Once again, if you make a purchase please click our banners to Amazon or B&H Photo right before you do because it helps to support the site. *-Chris Gampat*
          Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
          Twitter.com/Phoblographer
          Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer

  • Jackie

    Hi Chris, I am looking to upgrade my T2i and was thinking about either the 60D or the 7D, I’m not a professional, but I have done events (weddings, reunions, memorials, renaissance faire, baseball games). I also do some shooting for plays in darkened halls, and I love doing portraits. I don’t do much video. I would love to have your opinion on which camera would suit my needs best. Thank you

    • ChrisGampat

      7D all the way from what it sounds like.

      *-Chris Gampat*
      Editor in Chief, ThePhoBlographer.com
      Twitter.com/Phoblographer
      Facebook.com/ThePhoblographer

  • HIGH ISO???

    7D has better hish iso than 60D? What kind of half baked review is this?

  • Enonemus

    T2i and 60D run MagicLantern, 7D doesn’t and probably never will. This should be an extremely important point to those primarily interested in video. On that same note, I purchased a 60D for its stills abilities in conjunction with MagicLantern because I do a lot of night sky + landscape photography. Personally, i never thought the 7D offered much over the 60D plan on serious sports photography or shooting in the rain. I guess the AF is better, but I’ve never had any problems with my 60D.

  • valsstar

    Its my Camera :) ))
    Greatings from http://www.valphotography.at/

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  • Daren Johnson

    So I’m completely new to DSLRs but from reading reviews and this comment thread I’m pretty much settled on the 60D with a Canon 50mm f1.8 II. I’ll mainly be doing non-studio portraits but i’d also like the versatility to shoot landscapes/citiscapes when the opportunities arise. Would the Sigma 18-125mm f3.8-5.6 be a decent second lens?

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  • Slick

    I am looking at the 60D vs 7D for a possible upgrade. I presently have a Rebel XS with a variety of lens. The 18-55 mm kit lens & 70-300 mm 4-5.6 that came with the XS ( both are great with adequate light), 85 mm 1.8, 50 mm 1.8 & the latest purchase for a trip to Disney, 70-200 2.8 (non IS) that is out of this world.

    I also have a 430 EXII flash. The 85 & 70-200 produce amazing pictures in almost any light. Manual or automatic.

    I have had the XS for about 2.5 years and I am very comfortable with it. My limitations are dealing with indoor sports and low lighting. The 85 mm works pretty well in our high school gym which if very dark. I have spoken with many of the local sports guys that take pictures for the paper and they complain that its simply difficult to get crisp shots with the dark gym. I purchased the 70-200 to try and improve upon the reach of the 85 mm. So so results, although it worked fine for my daughters concert with even less light. These were stills vs. moving shots however. The XS has ISO of 1600 only. Don’t know if being able to bump that will result in better pictures or not.

    On our Disney trip, I never took off the 70-200 and I was able to get spectacular shots from most indoor venues provided the stages were spot lighted.

    Will there be a noticeable picture quality change with a body upgrade? My main purposes are wildlife, sports, and family. The addition of video is a major plus, but it certainly won’t be a deal breaker. I won’t be producing movies!!

    Thoughts?

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