Digital cameras 101

[extrememc]

Where can I find the best price and warranty on a Canon Rebel XT including everything except lense?

[ShutterbugGail]

For best prices, check out places like BizRate and Price Grabber:

http://www.bizrate.com/digitalcameras/

http://www.pricegrabber.com/home_photo.php/lnk=1

If by best price, you mean cheap, remember cheapest isn't always the least expensive. Take a look at some of the things you should know about when shopping online:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/buying-digital-camera/shopping-for-digital-camera-online.htm


You'll have to ask each dealer about the warranty they offer. If you decide to get an extended warranty, many digital camera users use Mack:

http://www.mackcam.com/index.html

Before buying an extended warranty, learn about the fine print so you really, really don't get stuck:

http://www.digicamhelp.com/digital-camera-extended-warranty/index.htm

[Deb]

Hi, also be aware that "grey" market items are usually priced lower. Some stores (online or otherwise) will offer a store warranty the same as the manufacturer's warranty to cover them. But not all "grey" market products are created equal. Be sure to read the particular merchants definition of "grey" market to know exactly what you are getting. Typically "grey" market items are direct imports.

[extrememc]

What would your opinion be of this retailer http://www.geniuscameras.com/info.asp .

[Mike54]

extrememc, it doesn't look very good frankly. I suggest before buying you go to resellerratings and check your choice out.
Personally I would stick with well known vendors like B&H Photovideo, 17th Street Photo, Adorama (though it gets mixed reviews),  or even Dell (also mixed reviews). There are other reputable dealers out there, just make sure you check your choice out first. As indicated previously, the lowest price isn't always the best deal.

[extrememc]

Upon finding and purchasing this camera. What do you think is a good flash for this camera for a home studio? I currenlty have a promaster D5550. Also what is your opinion of this dealer http://www.42photo.com/productdetail.asp?level=119&catid=316&productid=12925

[Mike54]

Also what is your opinion of this dealer

The reviews at [size=24]resellerratings.com[/size] peg it as a bait and switch (read scam).
As for a flash, what exactly are you going to be shooting in your studio? The Canon 420 or 430 EX may be more than adequate or you may need to invest in a lighting system such as Alien Bees depending on what you're going to do.

[ErininNY]

I was fortunate enough to get mine at-cost from a distributor.  With the lense it was $950 (give or take).  If that helps when deciding how much of a markup you are looking at.  Without lense kit I think it was in the range of low $900.

[extrememc]

Well I purchase my Rebel today and already love it. Thanks for your help. Now back to taken that next great shot.

[Mike54]

Just curious but where did you decide to buy from?

[extrememc]

Local Retailer Cost $936.00 Body Only

http://www.wolfs.com/