Would a Canon EOS 1D make a good partner/backup Body for my Xti

[tienm23]

I see that you can get these pretty cheap and I would like to play around with a "pro" body. I know that they are only 4mp but I don't print all that often anyways.

[cRaZyRaVr]

The question is whether the XTi would make a good back up to the 1D.... and the answer it that depends.

1D uses different sensor, produces different (more pleasing to some eyes) colors, has different tolerance to detail sharpness.... and I would bet for sports/action photography the 1D would beat your XTi in every single aspect.

If you can get it for cheap, go for it... if you can get 1dmkII or N get that and you wont have to replace that camera for a long long time.

[NiMSo]

Depends what you're shooting...

If doing fast-paced action, the 1D is a great choice and you can't go wrong. It's also built far better than the Rebels, and will make your XTi feel like a little toy!.

However, if using the camera for travel, high ISO work, or walk-arounds, then I don't think it's so useful. Also, note that the control scheme is very different from the Rebels, and the batteries are a pain (1D has crap battery life, and the batteries are heavier, more expensive, and more tricky to maintain). So take those points into consideration too...

[urameatball]

the 1D was great upto about 5 years ago.
If you're the type who likes buying technology from close to a decade ago, go for it.

I use to admire the 1D like how I use to think britney spears was hot. But times change.

[ryan_lau100]

the 1D was great upto about 5 years ago.
If you're the type who likes buying technology from close to a decade ago, go for it.

I use to admire the 1D like how I use to think britney spears was hot. But times change.

i agree with this statement up to a point. we all know tech will change and newer toys will come out but at the same time the 1D still can serve many purposes. if he is going to shoot sports or racing or anything fast and will only print to about 8x10 then yes it will do a great job. i have actually seen a 1D print a 16x20 and it looked fairly crisp.

i would say its not necessarily a backup or main but more a compliment to the xti. they serve different purposes. if you can find one cheap as you said and its in good condition then yes i would get one

[bpopd]

1D is good, but only up to ISO 800. If you need it for higher, you need to expose to the right. The good thing is that the 1D holds highlights exceptionally well.

Aside from that, I have a feeling you'll sell your xti after buying a 1D.

[urameatball]

i agree with this statement up to a point. we all know tech will change and newer toys will come out but at the same time the 1D still can serve many purposes. if he is going to shoot sports or racing or anything fast and will only print to about 8x10 then yes it will do a great job. i have actually seen a 1D print a 16x20 and it looked fairly crisp.

i would say its not necessarily a backup or main but more a compliment to the xti. they serve different purposes. if you can find one cheap as you said and its in good condition then yes i would get one
Keep this in mind though:

the 1D is an old pro camera, which is more finicky than something like an XTI. Back in the 1D days, sure, you can use ISO800 and blow up to 16x20, but that requires some skill on the photographer's part. It means nailing your settings and exposures, and having the hands of a surgeon (relatively speaking). Try editing an underexposed shot from a 1D taken at ISO800... you'll lose your hair!

There's a reason why the 1D is so "affordable" these days. Newer cameras are much more forgiving. I can pretty much shoot on demand on a 5D and get great results... if I pick-up a 5+year old canon DSLR, I'd be a nervous wreck.

[bpopd]

Keep this in mind though:

the 1D is an old pro camera, which is more finicky than something like an XTI. Back in the 1D days, sure, you can use ISO800 and blow up to 16x20, but that requires some skill on the photographer's part. It means nailing your settings and exposures, and having the hands of a surgeon (relatively speaking). Try editing an underexposed shot from a 1D taken at ISO800... you'll lose your hair!

There's a reason why the 1D is so "affordable" these days. Newer cameras are much more forgiving. I can pretty much shoot on demand on a 5D and get great results... if I pick-up a 5+year old canon DSLR, I'd be a nervous wreck.

I completely agree with this statement.
If Tiem23 could buy a 5D, that would be the best option. However everyone still anxiously waits for the successor. I think if you like what you see now, just get that.

[ryan_lau100]

I completely agree with this statement.
If Tiem23 could buy a 5D, that would be the best option. However everyone still anxiously waits for the successor. I think if you like what you see now, just get that.

you guys make good points and i can agree with those. i also agree with the see it now buy it mentality because if you keep waiting you will never get the camera you want. i had my eye on the 1Ds bc i could get a really good deal on one that is flawless. still considering it though. would you guys spend 500 more to get a 5D or just get a 1Ds for cheaper?

decisions decisions....