Im looking into getting a new camera

[dan4877]

My budget is about 1000 which I know isn't much but I wanna make sure I get the most bang for my buck. Any suggestions?

[neuroanatomist]

A lens better than the kit lens is your best bang for the buck. I'd get the T3i/600D with 18-55mm to start, and save another bit for the EF-S 15-85mm lens.

[Drizzt321]

T3i is good, check the Canon refurb website, they might have them a bit cheaper than new and still in good condition. If they have body only, you might save enough money to be able to put $300-400 into a lens of which there are a few decent ones. I used the original Sigma 17-70mm on my XSi and thought it was a pretty good lens. There's a newer version out which has Sigma's image stabilization (OS) tech. Apparently reviews are somewhat mixed, between OK and pretty decent. Even if you don't get that, if you can afford to get something other than the kit lens.

[dan4877]

t3i is what I've been told now a few times, but as you said I may want an upgraded lense... I looked at the refurb's and wasn't sure I wanted a refurbished lense... do you where else I might find a new lense comparable?

[Drizzt321]

Refurb/used lenses are not necessarily a bad thing. Glass that's in good condition is still worthwhile. Keh.com is a good spot to buy used lenses. FredMiranda has a pretty good section of user reviews for various lenses.

[Mt Spokane Photography]

Prices are dropping fast!  I bought a new 16-35mmL for less than Canon's price for a refurbished lens.
I'd sit tight and look for bargains, they are popping up everywhere.  Even the t4i is being discounted.
"The Digital Picture" has a running list of deals on the lower right sidebar, so visit that site as well.

[dan4877]

Thanks for the help! Think going with the t3i. I found a scratch protector for it too. Same place I got one for my phone, www.xoskins.com... I'd recommend them for anyone. 

[dhofmann]

I'd get a T2i refurbished from the Canon store ($480) plus the EF-S 15-85mm lens ($640). It only goes just a little above your stated budget. There's no need to spend extra money on the T3i or the kit lens.

Edit: order Saturday, July 28 through Monday, July 30 and use promo code EOS712 to save 15% off the price of the camera and get free shipping. Total price: $1047.98 shipped (by my calculation).

Edit 2: sorry, the above promo code doesn't give free shipping. This one does: SHIP712. You can add both promo codes to your order at the same time. Also, you may have to pay sales tax on your order.

[Ryan708]

Put most your money into a lens. they are coming out with a new camera every month now it seems, but lenses stay in the marketplace a lot longer and hold value better. I would go with the t2i. the t3i does offer wireless flash support. Refurbished is not a bad thing at all. refurbed products are meticulously inspected before they leave the company. I own a sigma 17-70 2.8-4.0 lens and it is a million times better than the kit 18-55. and quite a bit faster(bigger aperature). the canon 15-85 is an amazing lens if you can afford. the sigma is only about 425 USD. a new sigma also has a 3 year warranty in the US. the canon 50mm 1.8 is also a blast to play with for a first fast lens.

[SteenerMe]

T2i and a 50mm is a great way to start learning.

[sjp010]

Alternate suggestion: a used 5D from KEH can be had for $750-ish right now.  This includes a 6 month warranty through KEH.  Pair with a 50/1.8 ($100) or 40/2.8 ($200) if you like primes, or a used 28-135 ($200-ish) if you like zooms.  Not nearly as modern in features as the Rebels discussed above, but if you are looking for the best IQ you can get in your budget, I believe the full frame 5D is the answer.

[ishdakuteb]

here is the following choices:

1. as if you just start to learn about photography, buy all of the following:
   a. used 30d with excellent condition ($250), and
   b. used 50mm f/1.4 ($280), and
   c. used 580EX II ($330)

2. as if you already know about dslr, sit back, relax and
   a. wait for 60d combo on sale.  this was previously sold with 18-135mm for $900
   b. buy a used flash 420EX ($70)

3. as if you would buy everything brand new
   a. buy t2i (not much different from t3i, but save more than $100 bucks.), or
   b. buy t3i (~ $600), and
   c. a 430EX II

now, you might have some amount left, put it back in your pocket

[wickidwombat]

my suggestion

5D classic about $700
40mm f2.8 STM $200

save the $100 for your next lens

this combo will produce brilliant shots for under 1k

[birtembuk]

A lens better than the kit lens is your best bang for the buck. I'd get the T3i/600D with 18-55mm to start, and save another bit for the EF-S 15-85mm lens.

I'd go the same. T3i gives you all you need now for the price. And that includes the priceless wireless flash control (sooner or later, you will greatly appreciate, I guarantee) and flip screen. This kit lens, though pretty flimsy, gives you the best bang for the buck, sharpness and all. The time when you are going to splurge loads of money into gear will come soon enough !     

[canon816]

A great "Jack of all trades master of none" lens to go with your body is the Sigma 18-200mm.

It will allow you a wide range of zoom and great images.  It's not as sharp as an L... but you are not on a "L" budget.

I bought one with my first Rebel and used it for a couple of years.  It's a great lens and very versatile.

It's only $450 new and you can find it used for a hundred dollars less....