First DSLR - 70D 18-55 or 700D 18-135

marlosfm wrote:

Hello,

I'm a newcomer to the world of DSLR photography. After an extensive search for systems (useless, since I always wanted a Canon), cameras and lenses, the decision to buy a camera is now constrained to the budget. Previously, I was interested in the 700D (t5i), then it came to decide if I'd go for the kit 18-55 or the 18-135, and almost decided for the 18-135.

For me, this new DSLR camera will be a learning tool and a travel companion (not for pro video or pro sports). When shooting with compacts, I always wanted "more zoom", you know, when you are traveling and there is something really far away, the extra zoom is nice.

But then, considering my budget, I'm unsure if I'd pick the 700D 18-135 or the 70D 18-55 (since they are around $1000).

So a have a few questions, I know it is hard to answer them, but if you can share your opinions based on your experience, I'd appreciate.

1) What is the practical difference between 18-55 and 18-135? I know the technical stuff was asked dozen times before and I also read about 18-55 + 55-250, but I'm more into a 18-55 or 18-135 plus a 50mm prime f1/4 (and maybe also a 40mm pancake).

2) Considering I'd use this camera for travelling, the extra ~200g (7oz) of 70D is too much? Had you decided not to bring it with you just because it was too heavy?

3) And, finally, 70D 18-55 or 700D 18-135? Except for the side-by-side comparison (yes, I'd used it), is there a strong point in favor of paying more for the 70D based on your experience? I mean, would you pay more for it if you want to become a pro in the (long term) future?

Thank you in advance.

Marlos

Marlos, after much research and agonizing over the decision, I recently opted for a Canon T5/1200D, as I couldn't understand the difference between it and the T5i. A few weeks later, my adult son bought a Canon 70D. We've been learning together.

I now understand Consumer Reports highly regards the T5 as a newcomer's camera. I've learned my T5 is a remarkably capable piece of equipment despite the fact it's an entry-level DSLR. On the other hand, my son's 70D is something I aspire to. I doubt I'll ever feel a need for a full-frame camera, so the 70D is the end of the line unless the new 7D has a lot more to offer.The articulating screen is a valuable option, easily worth $100 or more (I don't have one).

The standard kit lens, an 18-55 is certainly sufficient for most people until they get a lot more experience and raise their standards significantly. My son and I also have the 55-250 lenses, and we are quite impressed with the results of early experiments at making good images. I highly recommend the 2-lens setup. The 18-135 is on my shopping list, since it covers most of my needs indoors or out. I spent 40 years photographing buildings, street scenes, and neighborhoods to document real estate appraisal work. Now I'm more into outdoor scenes for the moment. If I were you, I'd buy the better camera body - the 70D - then begin accumulating more and better lenses.

Hope this helps. //Don K