Digital cameras 101

[gigattmark]

I was purchasing a Canon Digital Xti with "autofocus" lenses in a package deal from a company online.  The confirmation email came back asking me to call the 800# to speak to a representative and when I called he immediately asked me if I wanted to upgrade to "digital" lenses, since the package came with non-digital lenses.  There were no choices available when I ordered and I assumed that buying a digital camera package, it came with "digital" lenses.  I am new to digital photography...but is there a difference? ...really, I felt like it was a false advertisement on their part. :-/

[ShutterbugGail]

Hi gigattmark and welcome to the Q&A Forum.

Unfortunately, I think your feeling is correct. The scenario you outline is one many digital camera buyers have complained about.

We have outlined the problem here, including information about who to contact if you're a victim of a bait-and-switch sale:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/buying-guide/shop-online/scam.php

If you are a victim, try to get your money back. If you've charged the purchase, contact your credit card company. Always order from a reputable company, even if you have to pay more for a camera.

As an example, here are comments by others who have had similar experiences:

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Broadway_Photo

[bdery]

Hi,

just to add to what Gail wrote...

Some lenses are indeed designed for digital cameras. There are two reasons for this:

1-most of the time, digital sensors are smaller than film, so a lens can be smaller and still illuminate the whole sensor

2-a CCD or CMOS sensor (those found in digital cameras) does not collect light in exactly the same way as film does, so you CAN design lenses made specifically for digital, to take that into account.

That being said, lenses made for film cameras usually work perfectly well on digital cameras. AND kit lenses sold with a DSLR body are perfectly adapted to the camera they are sold with.

Resellers ratings is a very good site to use, at least if you live in the US. If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.