I've been contemplating buying a DSLR, taking a few classes, and getting more serious about photography for a year or so now.
While in Target last night, I stumbled on this: http://www.target.com/p/canon-eos-r...m-lenses-memory-card-bag-and-dvd/-/A-14959423. It seems this was a black Friday deal at $650, plus a $150 Target gift card.
However, it was labeled as an "online item", and was reduced to $450. I had $175 of Target gift cards anyway, and thought, "what the heck. It's easier to buy it, change my mind, and return it, than to miss an opportunity on a deal."
From what I've read, the camera is well-reviewed for a consumer model, and the selling point seems to be its size. I've also seen several people comment that the 75-300mm lens doesn't have many practical uses for most.
If my habits hold true, I will primarily be shooting landscapes, action shots of pets, family, neat things I see at the zoo or out in the woods, etc.
Any and all guidance would be appreciated!
I guess I'm just wanting to confirm this is a decent deal, a good beginner camera, etc. The size isn't a big selling point to me, I had just been casually looking for a new camera, and thought I would jump at the chance for a good deal on a well-reviewed model. Also, does anyone have recommendations on sources of online tutorials, must read books, etc.?
I know the 18-55mm lens is a "kit lens". Is there a general jack of all trades lens that would be good for a beginner?
While in Target last night, I stumbled on this: http://www.target.com/p/canon-eos-r...m-lenses-memory-card-bag-and-dvd/-/A-14959423. It seems this was a black Friday deal at $650, plus a $150 Target gift card.
However, it was labeled as an "online item", and was reduced to $450. I had $175 of Target gift cards anyway, and thought, "what the heck. It's easier to buy it, change my mind, and return it, than to miss an opportunity on a deal."
From what I've read, the camera is well-reviewed for a consumer model, and the selling point seems to be its size. I've also seen several people comment that the 75-300mm lens doesn't have many practical uses for most.
If my habits hold true, I will primarily be shooting landscapes, action shots of pets, family, neat things I see at the zoo or out in the woods, etc.
Any and all guidance would be appreciated!
I guess I'm just wanting to confirm this is a decent deal, a good beginner camera, etc. The size isn't a big selling point to me, I had just been casually looking for a new camera, and thought I would jump at the chance for a good deal on a well-reviewed model. Also, does anyone have recommendations on sources of online tutorials, must read books, etc.?
I know the 18-55mm lens is a "kit lens". Is there a general jack of all trades lens that would be good for a beginner?