New Canon Rebel - Canon T3i Review

If you are a photographer looking for an entry-level digital SLR, you waited just long enough!

The Canon T3i is right on time! Replacing the T2i after only a year, the T3i is ready to rock and roll.

One year is about normal for the release of a new Rebel digital SLR.

Since you are prepared to make a purchase, this is wonderful news for you. You are probably chomping at the bit to find out what this new camera has in store for you.

One thing it does not have is a new sensor, and this is something that has some folks wondering. This is actually the first time since the first sub-$1000 camera that the sensor size has not been increased. The fact of the matter is, this Rebel does not need a new sensor. It has the same sensor as the T2i, but it is also the exact same sensor as the one in the 60D and 7D. This means that if you get a T3i, you are virtually guaranteed the same high quality images as those who are shooting with those more expensive DSLRs.

And that's not all. Other stuff has not been upgraded. Here's a list:

• 18-MP CMOS sensor - not changed
• DIGIC 4 processor - nope, not changed
• Kit lens - same 18-55mm lens
• ISO sensitivity - still 100-6400 (expandable to 12800)
• Video - unchanged from 1080P HD
• Continuous shooting rate - 3.7 frames per second, just like the T2i

Wait! I can just hear you asking, "But what has changed, if anything?" If all these things are the same, you should be able to save a few bucks and buy the T2i, right?

Just check out the new/upgraded features before you decide this is a waste of your time. There is plenty to rejoice about.

First - The new Rebel T3i has a vari-angle (articulating) LCD screen just like the 60D. Many photographers would give up their first-born for this, especially those who shoot lots of video.

Second - You will see a new stop on the mode dial called "Green Square". This is a totally auto mode selector that allows the camera to set and change the mode with each shot. Point and shoot camera owners may be familiar with this if they have an "Intelligent Auto" setting on their camera. If you are at all confused about the settings for a particular shot, let the camera do the work and enjoy the benefits.

Third - Creative filters for in-camera editing. With this feature, you can convert a photo that you have already taken to a different mode without having to upload it to a computer. You can even create fish-eye effects with this new feature.

The fourth feature is also a huge one. The T3i is the first Rebel to have mode descriptions display on the LCD screen. You no longer have to remember what those silly little pictures mean. Now you can read a short description of the mode setting on the LCD screen. Gotta love this one.

Canon has taken steps to make this new Canon Rebel T3i just what the new digital DSLR owner needs.