Canon 1100D: is it any good?

[jon1000]

I am thinking of buying a new camera for general use but one that will also be capable of astro photography.

There seems to be a lot of threads on here that mention this camera, would I be correct in thinking that this will be good enough for DSO and planetary imaging?

I also like the accessories that you can get, mainly the remote shutter release.

Also on a side note, I have a MacBook and a windows laptop, what would be the best one to use, software wise and also could I connect the 1100D to a computer to get the live image on the screen or is that mot possible?

Thank you.

[sologuitarist61]

It is an excellent camera Jon and used by a good many people here on SGL and there have been many posts with regard to it and how to use it

[Gina]

It's what I use and I'm very happy with them.

[Photosbykev]

a lot of people are happy with the 1100D for general and astro work. The windows laptop will be better as you can use the Canon software for basic remote control or more specialised software like APT or BYEos to control the camera remotely with live view for astrophotography. I'm not sure if the Canons are supported with the Mac as I've never really played with one.

[jon1000]

Thanks everyone.

Photosbykev, thanks for letting my know about the software too.

Looks like I need to find a cheap 1100d :-)

[Gina]

For body only for AP I can recommend this firm on ebay - I have boufght several from them - good price and very quick delivery. Badged Rebel T3 but exactly the same as the UK badged 1100D :- http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/320885602263?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

[jon1000]

Thanks Gina, I bought one from cirrus today with a 55mm lens for £305 and I have claimed £30 cash back and £13 back on Quidco.

I only tried it for ten mins before work and now can't wait to go home, only problem is that I'm back in tomorrow morning so will not be able to try it properly until Sunday morning. From what I have seen of it I am very happy.

Can anyone recommend some good lenses (but not to expensive) that I can use with it. I'm looking for some good effects, fish eye etc and a good zoom lens.

Thanks

[Ags]

The EF-S 55-250 is a good zoom and cheap too. It is not compatible with clip filters often used for astro imaging, but it is a good lens for general use.

The 50mm F1.8 is the cheapest Canon lens and is excellent for widefield astrophotography.

A lot depends on your definition of 'not too expensive'.