When I told my Columbia University graduate students about the new Canon Rebel T2i HDSLR camera today, the class almost evacuated in a rush to try to buy one. It will cost less than a round trip ticket to Sundance, and is expected to deliver in early March for an estimated retail price of $799.99 for body only, and $899.99 for body and Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens. The Rebel T2i Digital SLR camera shoots 18-megapixel still images at up to 3.7 fps, has an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800), a 63-zone Dual Layer Metering System, and Canon’s DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor. Yes, of course: it does full HD 1920 x 1080 at 30 (29.97), 25 or 24 (23.976) fps, and HD 1280 x 720 or Standard Definition 640 x 480 quality video, at 60 (59.94) or 50 fps–with manual exposure control, selectable frame rates and an external microphone input. Sounds very similar to the specs of an EOS 7D at entry-level prices in a less rugged, but still very capable body.

My friend Bruce Dorn adds: “The T2i uses SD cards (the 7D uses Compact Flash cards).  This thing is feather-light, and probably great for awkward or high-velocity mounts.  Perfect for potentially destructive set-ups. The ability to pick up a last-minute back-up body at Costco or Best Buy could be a significant advantage in some circumstances…no weatherizing at this level, however.”