When I was looking at cameras I read that the lens that comes with this camera was not very good. I bought the camera with the lens anyway. I figured that if I didn't like the lens I could always get a better one. I have had a few days of picture taking in the New Mexico and Arizona areas. This camera and lens are great.
The lens takes very sharp pictures from the balloon launch at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta to petroglyphs and close ups of petrified wood. I used my 75-300 zoom lens from my old Canon EOS film camera to shoot wild life at long distance and that lens worked great as well. The camera processes each shot so quickly that it can rapid fire without hesitation. Either the people who did not like the lens are much better at photography than I am or they don't know what they are talking about.
Better than the first
I have had this camera for about 3 weeks now and I must say I love it. I purchased it to replace my older Canon Rebel 6.1 mp which I also loved and still do. (though its only a still picture camera) Its a great backup. This new Camera 500D 15.1 mp has many options but what I really like is the HD video camera feature. No more bringing a separate video camera on vacation. This is a perfect all in one camera. I also bought the Canon 18-200 mm zoom lense which truly makes the camera and all in one. Its a little smaller than my old one and a lot lighter. The only thing that might not be 5 star would be the shutter sound. It's kind of loud but not a turn off in no way. Just have to get used to.
Having said that, once I shoot with my old camera (hearing the lack of sound) and then shoot with the new camera (more sound) I am finding myself liking the new sound better. The battery is smaller and lighter and seems to last longer except when using the video mode, then it goes pretty quick. Best to get a backup battery anyway, especially if your going to be taking alot of pictures or video such as on vacation. I also purchased to San Disk Ultra 11 16GB, works great with the video BUT my card reader doesnt work with it. I have to unload the photos/video using the cable. It unloads very fast just a little inconvenient.
Great Product for a great Price
got this camera with two lenses from B&H fro only $870 something dollars. It was a great deal that I couldn't pass up. The camera take great pictures...especially with the 1.4 or 1.2 50MM lens. (do yourself a favor and get either one of those. Pictures are crisp, but this is no point and shoot camera. It would benefit you to read the manual several times over, and get instructional books on how to operate it properly for best results.
the video on this camera is very very good @ 720P as long as you don't pan too much. If you go in and out of scenes without panning too much it's PERFECT (depending on what type on glass you have on the camera. my reason for buying it from the B&H store was...the three year warranty fro the camera body, and each lens...so if I drop the camera or lenses...they will replace them no questions asked if they cannot fix it. usually they just give you a new one...it has happened before, and they are very good on their word.