I am often asked what camera I recommend for the serious amateur. I always recommend Canon equipment because I think they’re just better cameras. I still own an old Nikon film camera, and it always did a good job for me. But when I decided to invest in a pro level camera, I looked at Nikon and Canon. The Canons just felt better ergonomically, the viewfinder is better, and the “L” series lenses just cannot be beat. The image quality is also superb.

So, for the serious amateur not wanting to invest $4,000 just in a camera body, I recommend the Canon Digital Rebel XSi body, and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L zoom lens. This lens is pricey, but it is spectacular.