First of all, I want to thank everyone for the great information on this site. I have been lurking, unregistered, for several weeks, getting info to help me with my first DSLR purchase.My first SLR was purchased in the early '70s and was a Canon FTb. I then had a Canon Rebel 35mm film camera. Later, I had a couple of Sony P&S cameras, the latest being the nice H5.Today, I purchased a T3i with the 18-55 kit lens and the 55-250 lens. I bought these at the local Best Buy. For $1059. plus tax.I just wanted to introduce myself and express my appreciation. I look forward to sharing pictures in the future.

Welcome.I think people are beginning to recognise that the two Canon budget lenses are actually quite good. I have the pair (plus Sigma 10-20mm, though I now think the Tamron 10-24 might have been a better buy for the extra 6mm flexibility ). The 55-250mm gives almost 400mm equivalent and is a (small) fraction of the price of L glass.

My first SLR was also the Canon FTb (gosh, we're dating ourselves!). But, with cameras like that you didn't feel the need(?) to continually update.Later, I had a couple of Sony P&S cameras, the latest being the nice H5.The Sony H5 is an excellent camera with that Zeiss lens, whether P&S or not (as was my fine Lumix FZ50 with the superb Leica lens)Congratulations on the T3i and kit; it's an excellent purchase. I've had my T2i for about a year, and I know the T3i will meet all your expectations!

Welcome to the forums and gratz on your purchase , I am sure it will serve you well as it is quite a capable set up .windmillgolfer wrote:The 55-250mm gives almost 400mm equivalent and is a (small) fraction of the price of L glass.Steady on pal , it's a crop sensor , the image around the outside is simply not there (wrt FF), it doesn't give a "magical zoom" feature . I'll leave the "L glass" comparison alone .

Yargowrote:Steady on pal , it's a crop sensor , the image around the outside is simply not there (wrt FF), it doesn't give a "magical zoom" feature . I'll leave the "L glass" comparison alone .I believe he was referring to the 1.6X factor for 35mm equivalent (400mm).

Congrats on the T3i!!!I just picked one up last week with the 15-85 and I am extremely satisfied and I am sure you will be too.I look forward to seeing some of your shots.Dan

canuck davewrote:My first SLR was also the Canon FTb (gosh, we're dating ourselves!). But, with cameras like that you didn't feel the need(?) to continually update.Okay, I might as well join in. I have my FTB in the rafters.Rick,

Congratulations and welcome! I'm sure you and your T3i will be very happy together. Looking forward to seeing some shots from you!Cheers Olivia -- The world is too big for one lifetime, and one lens.http://www.flickr.com/photos/oliviamair/