Even though my Sony DSC-H50 has served me well (most of the pictures in my blogs have been taken with that camera), it did not offer me with enough range to produce the pictures I want. During this year’s boxing day event, I decided it was time to take advantage of the gazillion SLR deals. Move over super zoom cameras, newbie SLR’s are here to replace you!

For the sake of trading lens, I have decided to stick with Canon since most of my friends have the same brand. After many, many, many, many hours of reviews, it was between the 40D or the Xsi. In the end, the smaller size, lighter weight, and most importantly, the lower price pushed me towards the Xsi. It was finally delivered today and my excitement burst through the roof!

The package arrived at my door step:

Like a little kid opening his present on Christmas day, I unwrapped the packaging to reveal its content:

The deal was the Xsi camera with the 18-55mm IS lens kit + Lowepro camera bag + battery grip + extra battery (for a total of 2) for $699.99 CDN at Best Buy. I also ordered the “Nifty Fifty” or the “Plastic Fantastic” (50mm f/1.8 II lens) for $120 based on recommendations from many blogs/reviews/forums. Yes… that is a lot of money, guess no more shopping for me for the rest of this year.

Here is what the camera look like with the Nifty Fifty lens:

The battery is currently charging, I will post up some pictures taken from the camera once the charging is complete.

Click here to check out the sample images.