Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I made my choice of the HTsi Plus after a comprehensive search of the various SLR bodies, weighing their features and their reviews in camera magazines. Within its price range, the HTsi principally competes with the Canon EOS Rebel 2000 and the Nikon N60, both of which are excellent cameras, but which lack the full panoply of features found on the HTsi Plus. For example, the HTsi plus combines Bulb exposure (the ability to hold the shutter open manually), remote shutter control, 1/4000 maximum shutter speed, a full shutter-priority mode, and a well-respected 14-segment light meter. As with the Canon and Nikon, the HTsi's body is plastic, an aspect about which some photographers express reservations, but the plastic seems extremely durable, and remember that a light camera is a joy to carry (and if you do not carry the camera, you are never going to get those perfect but fleeting shots). The only thing missing on the HTsi is a depth-of-field preview feature, which is available on the Canon. Were it not for that, I would find little future need to upgrade. Regardless, for an amateur just getting into photography again, the HTsi has been perfect.
For adaptability, the HTsi has three essential levels of complexity. Use P mode for fully automatic snapshots -- great for when you need someone else to take your picture. Use the Creative Exposure Mode for a bit more customization and to adjust it to one of five situations (portrait, landscape, close-up, sports, and night). Finally, use either the Aperture-Priority, Shutter-Priority, or fully manual modes to bring out the real photographer in you. After all, playing with f-stops and shutter speeds is where the fun of photography is anyway. I admittedly spend most of my time in this last mode, but the flexibility is highly appreciated (sometimes, one just does not have the time to fuss with dials).
The results from the HTsi have been fabulous. The flash seems to respond well to the darkest of conditions, and the 28-80 zoom lens offers the flexibility needed for a budding photographer. My only criticism is that the autofocus can be slow to respond in some lighting conditions. So far, I have taken rolls of photos for my organization, and everyone seems impressed with the results. I also bought a set of Tiffen close-up filters for doing macro photography, and the results have been quite stunning.
A final word. Amazon offers one of the best deals on the Net with service and peace-of-mind that you simply cannot beat. Believe me, I checked. I tried one of those mail order camera stores that advertise ultra low prices. By the time they "upgraded" me to what they viewed was an acceptable camera and charged me their exorbitant shipping fee, the price was higher than here. And guess what? Amazon's package already had all of those so-called "upgrades" -- without the hassle. Thanks Amazon!
Click Here to see more reviews about: Minolta Maxxum HTsi Plus 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 28-80mm Lens
The Maxxum HTsi is an autofocus SLR camera uniquely designed for both beginner and amateur photographers. Controls for beginners are located on the top right side of the camera body, and the function dial for the more advanced operations (for experienced photographers) is positioned on the top left. You can switch from one mode to another instantly, and back again. The ease of use, high performance, and creative control makes the Maxxum HTsi the best choice for demanding consumers and comparison shoppers who want the most value for their dollar.
Click here for more information about Minolta Maxxum HTsi Plus 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 28-80mm Lens
