Q: I have a base-level digital SLR camera (a 10.1-megapixel Canon XTi) that's about five to six years old. Are there any advantages to updating to a more modern version, other than more megapixels?
I'm talking strictly from a photography point of view and ignoring video. I'm also asking about updating (going to a more recent base camera), as opposed to upgrading (going to a higher-level model).
I have a Canon 18-55mm kit zoom lens and a Canon 50/1.8 fixed lens for lower-light situations. I rarely make prints, and when I do, I don't make prints bigger than 5 by 7 inches.
Should I upgrade my camera body?
A: A more recent entry-level digital SLR will probably have more megapixels, better low-light performance, and faster focusing and overall operation. It also will have a bigger, higher-resolution LCD display on the back, improved video functionality and possibly art filters or Wi-Fi capability.
You also are likely to get better-looking images due to improvement in sensor and image processing technology. How much better depends on your technique, the environment you take pictures in and your willingness to adjust pictures in software later.
Last week, I recommended that a reader stand pat and enjoy the audio system he had, rather than upgrade. This is the proper advice for you, too. Keep enjoying your camera.
You had to ask me about the advantages of a more modern entry-level camera, rather than telling me about the perceived shortcomings of what you have now, and you're not interested in video. This tells me that your camera is working well for you. If you're printing only at 5 by 7 inches, 10.1 megapixels is plenty.
