Canon Rebel T3i & Betsy Jototes Camera Bag
I like to hear good news last, it always makes the bad news seem not so bad. Agreed?
Okay, so the bad news is…
My camera has a cataract in it’s lense. lol. It actually sounds pretty funny once I type it out and not much like bad news… but in all reality it definitely IS bad news… Check it out:
Let me tell you how MAD I was when I noticed that half of my current photos had this lovely little black mark through them. Grrrrr. So I took my camera apart (the most I could) and cleaned everything like good ol’ youtube told me to.
It didn’t work 🙁
So I put it aside for a day. Went back the next day and guess who’s camera now didn’t turn on at ALL?.
GAH!
Let me preface this by saying that my camera had been acting up for some time now. Giving me error messages, not focusing like it should, battery dying faster, and the flash not popping up like normal. So needless to say, I had quite the freak-out session. I even called Cason at work (poor guy) and did a little crying….yes, about my broken, cataract infected camera. lol
I hate to admit this, for the sake of sounding a bit dramatic and crazy, but my camera is like my left arm! It’s a HUGE extension of me, and I use it daily!
Well, come to find out, after we took it to the “camera doctor” … my baby was on it’s last leg. You should have seen the look on the guys face when I told him my normal download of pictures each day is about 300-400 on average. ha!
My camera has been SO good to me throughout the last 6 years, and with the way that I use and abuse cameras, it was definitely time to retire the old one and purchase the “newer model”.
So I want to welcome our newest addition to the family!…
The Canon Rebel T3i!
Ooo… Ahh…
I knew that I wanted to stick with a Canon brand camera, because I already know the in’s and out’s and it was important that I have a smooth transition from one camera to the next. (yes, it seems silly, but to me it was important) SO when my brother told me that he spotted one on newegg.com for only $850.00, plus I could finance it for 12 months no interest… I was sold!
Can I tell you that I got this baby in the mail a few days ago and about started to CRY because of it’s amazingness-ness!?!? (yup, it’s a word)
There are SO many new features for me to play with, that I don’t even know where to start!
It takes video, has digital live view, and… are you ready for one of the BEST parts? IT HAS A SWIVEL SCREEN!!! Great for recording video posts, setting up family pictures that you have to take yourself, or getting the perfect one handed trademark,
“House of Smiths photo-booth shot!” haha!
I am seriously blown away by the quality of photos that this camera puts out, compared to my last one. Not that my other camera was bad, by any means… it’s just that technology has come a long way in 6 years!
In fact, the first photos that I took with my favorite new toy were the head shots of little Miss Aubrielle and her cute Vintage Rose Wrap! I’m tellin’ ya, this girl has the patience of a FLY, and was wiggling all around. This camera made it SUPER simple to capture great, clear pictures the FIRST time! And the only editing I did was to add a little sparkle to her eyes. I didn’t have to play with lighting or ANYTHING, because the camera settings that I had at the time, did it all for me! (big thanks to Emilie for teaching me those!) HUGE time saver!
I HIGHLY recommend this camera to newbies OR advanced photographers. Especially if you are looking to take your photos or blog to the next level.
Okay, so no girl can get a new camera and NOT have a great new bag to carry it in too, right? 🙂
So my favorite camera bag gal, April from Jototes sent me this adorable new bag design from her shop to try out!
It’s called the Betsy, and it’s gorgeous, functional and has TONS of storage space without getting all bulky on me. My favorite part, besides the fact that it’s this fantastically trendy yet classy mustard yellow color, is the outer zipper compartments. One on the backside, and one in the flap! Perfect for papers, your calender and other important things that you don’t want to dig through your bag to get to.
Ooo, and there’s also two easily accessible outer pockets for the good ol’ cell phone. LOVE THAT!
🙂
So armed with my new “toys” I’m ready for this long weekend!
We’re heading out with family to enjoy the last few rays of sunshine and warmth of the Summer, before the fall and winter months takeover, here in Utah.
🙂
We’re heading out with family to enjoy the last few rays of sunshine and warmth of the Summer, before the fall and winter months takeover, here in Utah.
🙂
Oh, and before I forget…
Looking for some inspiration when figuring out how to decorate with your favorite family portraits?
Look no further! Kristen, from Kristen Duke photography has pulled together a bunch of fabulous bloggers, and asked them to share some of their favorite photo displaying and decorating tips! I’m honored to “kick off” this fun series today on Kristen’s blog.
So head on over and check out how I have tried to bring some “personal-personality”, through photos… into our space!
And remember to check back each day this month, for ideas from other fabulous bloggers that are all lined up 🙂
Anonymous says
I just got my first DSLR a couple months ago. I got the Canon T3 (without the "i") and I love it! I also bought a Jo Tote which I love. I go the Millie in the plum color – love the color and the style! My only complaint about the purse is that it's a tad awkward to put the camera in and out of it since the lens is sticking straight up.
Jeanine The Crafting Fiend says
love that camera bag and your little girl is adorable!
House of Smiths says
Thanks Jen! And Larajane, have you thought about turning your camera the other way, so it's laying flat? That's how I do mine. I just adjust the velcro so that it makes for a larger opening 🙂
Holly says
Congrats on your new camera! I'm still learning the tricks of the trade when it comes to photography but I sure am loving it. Would love to read and see more on the Jo Tote. I discovered these just the other day and am considering purchasing one so I can carry my camera around (in style, of course) and not have to worry about it getting damaged just thrown in my purse (yikes!) Thanks for sharing and have a good holiday weekend 🙂
-Holly
8six11.blogspot.com
House of Smiths says
Hey Holly! You can find more info about my first JoTotes bag here! I LOVE them! 🙂
thehouseofsmiths.com/2011/01/jo-totes-camera-bags-for-ladies.html
LisasFitLife says
I love my Jo Tote 🙂
Karie @ The HoB says
Enjoy the new camera and tote! I love JoTotes and have considered getting one, might just take the plunge!!
The Denny Family says
Please keep us posted on the camera and maybe even some tutorials on fun things to do with it. I've been chugging along and saving and I'm almost there!! Did you get it with the lens or what lens do you use for your great shots!! BEAutiful! 🙂
liZ says
Oh! Congrats on the new camera. That really is exciting. I finally got a camera this summer (a week before I took Emilie's class). And I can't stop using it. I seriously would cry to if something happened to it.
liZ
(simplesimonandco)
ps–that Betsy bag is AMAZING! I'm jealous.
Unknown says
I knew you would like this camera. I liked you being jealous of my t2i. You are such a one-upper;) can't imagine how many pictures you are going to take up at the cabin this weekend. 2 bloggers + 2 DSLR cameras + 1 family vacation = waaaaaaaay to many pics to go through:)
M and M plus 3 says
OMG, too funny, I almost came home with this same camera about and hour ago! I'm searching on line now for one with the most accessories. I'm loving your camera bag!!!!
Dear Lillie says
So jealous of your new camera and of that camera bag! I desperately need to get a camera bag instead of just constantly dumping mine into my diaper bag. Aubrielle is beautiful.
Candy says
Thanks for the recommendation! I'm planning on buying a new camera next month and am still trying to decide between a Canon and a Nikon.
Kristen says
Ok, I'm sorry, the cataract thing made me laugh. But I know this is very VERY serious. I have a Canon T2i that I would D.I.E DIE over if anything happened to it. Looks like the T3 rocks! And the purse – too cute. I'm asking Santa for one this year.
Nicole @ she-laughs says
Aagh! I love my T3i!! Can't wait to see more pics.
Coley says
Thanks for the recomendations! I really would like to buy a professional camera and am debating on what brand to get. I think I want to buy one just to put in that adorable bag!
Keely says
LOVE it! Love love love it. The color is gorgeous!
Kacey says
I'm sorry about your old camera's sad ending…but it's great that it ended up in a happy ending for you, Shelley! The T3i looks amazing. I have the T2i and love it!
I have the Jo Totes' Rose bag in Marigold and love it. Enjoy your long weekend!
Stephanie says
It is completely amazing how little girls can look so fabulous without ANY makeup on! Why doesn't that last… *wistful sigh…*
Congrats on the new camera! It looks awesome!
Unknown says
You got a yellow one I was thinking of a yellow one but didn't have the guts. Good for you love the new style.
Shirley says
Your daughter is too cute in those pics! I am so jealous about your new bag, I want the same one in the chocolate brown!!!
Artfulife says
I just got my T3i a few months back & to say I LOVE it would be an understatement. Sorry your old camera bit the dust but I'm so excited you got such a great new one 🙂
Monica says
Omgosh, congrats on your new camera!!…and bag! Both look awesome! :o)
Maureen says
So the bad news was bad…but the good news OH SO GOOD! New camera definitely trumps the bad news's butt 😀
Unknown says
New toys are not just for boys that's for sure! It's smart you stayed with Canon since lenses are not interchangeable between say Canon and Nikon and like you said lady, the functionality and layouts are familiar.
You always take such great photos and newbies to DSLR learn so much from looking at others photos. I just got my first DSLR, the Nikon D7000 back in February and gosh I'm still learning how to use everything with it.
That bag btw is tooo adorable!
Have fun and takes lots and lots of new photos!! 🙂
Megan says
I am so in need of a camera because having the right camera makes the world of difference when posting them to your blog. I'd say my blog is in the kindergarten stages and yours, heck you're already on your Thesis!
Love the color of that bag, great style!
Still working on a command center so my mind is spinning with some ideas! Still think you should do one and post for the world to see because we would all copy you, 🙂
Megan
1funkywoman.blogspot.com
Kimberly says
New fan to House of Smiths via The Tomkat Studio. I love your blog and only been here for an hour now. I also am in need of a new camera, still using my little casio point and shoot. Interested in knowing it your new Cannon would be easy to learn and use for a newbie? Happy to meet you! Kim FB(aka Cakepops101)
missy s says
I have a super old digital rebel and so ready for a new model! what type of lenses do you have and use the most? i think some cell phones have more mp than my old rebel 😉
Mar says
Wow, such a great camera to own – looking at all your wonderful photos, this camera does an amazing job! Your daughter looks soo adorable, and loving the color to the bad too!
Btw, I recently joined Blog Day Celebration 2011 over Nuffnang and recommended your blog – and I won third place. I truly love your DIY tutorials, and you truly make such amazing space recreations that I just had to share it to my readers. It would be an honor if you could drop by to see my post, if your interested, here's the link:
notyourordinarybeautyqueen.blogspot.com/2011/08/celebrate-international-blog-day-2011.html
Cynthia says
My 5 year old Rebel is giving me grief too. I want a new camera so bad but just can't justify the $$$ right now. Must start saving my pennies!
Tami says
Oh, i read your post this afternoon then later on in the day you will never guess what happened to me. Yep, I dropped my point and shoot camera & down she went. The lens was open, the battery & card both flew out. OUCH, it was ugly! When I try to turn it on it won't open & says to retry, maybe it is will be o.k. but maybe not. What a good excuse to upgrade. I am no photographer at all, but do take lots of pix of my 5 kids and all their friends. So wanted your advice on a simple, good not too expensive camera. I would love one like yours but not sure if it is too fancy and hard! HELP! Thanks Tami
Erin {Lavender and Lemon Drops} says
Ah dang! So sorry about your camera breaking down 🙁 but soooo jealous over your new camera! I wish I would have gone with canon. I bought a Nikon and still have no idea how to use the dang thang! Enjoy your long weekend with your family and your new camera 😉
Pine Tree Home says
Glad you shared the news as I am in the market for a camera and have had my eye on this one.
Breanna says
I also have the Rebel T3i 🙂 I got it back in June and I am in love 🙂 I LOVE your blog! 🙂
Lorie says
In case anyone else has this problem, I had a similar issue and I took it to a camera shop to have my sensors professionally cleaned. It cost about $25 and fixed the problem completely. Over two years later it still works great.
Of course, I still have the same old camera instead of a fun new one! ;D
Jennifer says
Ahhh! You put up our practice photo-ing yourself photo from CE! Love it! If you have a chance, could you send me a copy? I had my fixed lens on that day so we couldn't get one w/ my camera b/c it was too close up. Hope you had a great long weekend! Your girls are SO photogenic. 🙂
Jen
Scissors & Spatulas
Robyn says
Excellent choice! You're going to have so much fun with it. I bought my D60 (Elan I think in the States?) a couple of months ago and LOVE it.
Susan says
I LOVE that bag! I've always hated carrying around my camera bags because they're usually bulky and ugly and make me look like a tourist wherever I go (even at home!). But that mustard bag is so cute I'd use it as a purse too!
Also, I thought you might like to know that I have Cannon Powershot, despite my Nikon loyalty that started with my very first 35mm, and my camera had cataracts too! It has only ever happened to me with the Cannon and no one else seems to have the same problem. But after a few months (some very important ones commemorated by flawed photos – tiny flaws, but we perfectionists still hold grudges), it disappeared! I haven't seen camera cataracts since, so I hope you haven't thrown away your oldie-but-goodie! It might be useful for the girls to learn on one day! (Or as a back-up.)
Lisa says
I have been asking around for thoughts on a new camera for awhile! This was soo helpful. And you were not trying to sell me anything!! HA! Thanks!
Have fun with the new camera!
ificould says
Oh, I have such camera envy!! And could that camera bag be any cuter? Seriously jealous.
Missy
ificould-ificould.blogspot.com
Alima says
Do you have a link to one you purchased from Newegg? I've been looking for a camera and this sounds like a great deal, but I only see one that is $1049 (with lense) and one that is $749 (body only). Did you have to buy new lenses or did your old ones work with the t3i?
Pine Tree Home says
P.S. I am back to tell you that this post was the push I needed to spring for a great camera. I talked to a lot of peeps, Nikon and Canon lovers, and settled on the Canon. I researched every model and settled on the Rebel T3i because of its awesome features and it was in the price range I was willing to spend. Thanks for sharing!!!!
Becka Robinson says
You'll get little marks like that on your photos all the time, even with your new camera. It's just dust or sand on your sensor. You will especially notice it when you shoot on higher apertures. But you definitely should NOT try to DIY when it comes to taking care of it. Send it off to Canon every now and then to have your sensor cleaned or take it to a reputable camera shop in town and have them clean it. 🙂
Unknown says
I am totally in love with Teal Rose! Finally a camera bag that doesn't look so…well unfashionable and so …. manly….! Love them! But I doubt I will get my husband OR my 14 year old to carry the camera now…..lol! But I will be able to put my purse stuff in there too so I won't have several bags to carry! GREAT GIFT IDEA TOO!
Positively Angel says
Thanks for this post, I am getting ready to place my order for a Canon Rebel T3i and you have helped me decide between that and a Nikon. Now I can't decide what lens to go with, they have several different kits at NFM with different lenses, of which I have none so I don't know what to do. What lenses do you use with yours? Thanks:)
Anonymous says
Does anyone know were else I can purchase a camera "purse" for my Canon Rebel T3i?