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Question: Entry vs!. "semi pro" dslr!?
I asked this question in another room (cameras), hope you don't mind a repeat!.

I've asked a few questions earlier about the XSi vs 40D!.
Now I'm wondering this, what exactly is the diff between entry and bridge cameras IF the IQ is same!?
A bridge like the 40D works better in lower light situations, but a camera like the XSi will do fine in that dept with a proper lens!.
The camera's build really doesn't matter so long the photographer babies their equip (I'd be in that category)!.
The ergonomics of a digital camera also don't to matter to me that much, I've worked with film up until now (rangefinder and SLR) and like a challenge!. Both the XSi and 40D are super easy to use!.
Features on a digi are fairly important, but alot of entry are in step with the bridge cameras!.
In the case of the two Canons I'm looking at the sensor is the same!.
So exactly why are "semi-pros" always recommended above the entry!?
With film cameras you want a good body, but the lens is what makes the diff!.
From everything I've read about DSLRs people are really into the body before the lens!.

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Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
The better build quality means the semi-pro model will outlast a similarly treated entry level camera!. And don't discount superior ergonomics - the less you have to futz around to get the settings right, the more apt you are to get the shot before your subject moves or the light changes!. Moving from the XSi to the 40D you also get higher max ISO, faster buffering, faster continuous shooting, the ability to use wireless remote, and a few other features!.

That said, I couldn't justify stretching my budget to get something like a 40D, and I'm quite happy with my XSi!. Even the entry-level DSLRs tend to be very capable cameras, but you have to accept that a certain amount of quality and capability has to be traded to get a camera at that price point!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Only to back up what Jim said, the bridge/semi pro cameras have sturdier shutters!. They will literally last longer than their entry level counterparts!. You cant baby a shutter, it just opens and closes and the 40D will outlive an XSi in shutter life even under the most pristine conditions!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

in addition, a 40d will hold more value than the rebel, so in a few years, when you decide to upgrade, you will be able to sell the 40d and recoup a surprising amount of your original investment!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Well it sounds to me that you won't be using you camera like the sand water guy!. While he is right the better camera you get the longer it will last, but i am gussing you already know this so to answer you question and maybe help you out some here!. How much are you willing to spend!.!.!.if you are willing to spend $700 to $1,100 i would buy a Nikon D80 if you have more then that to spend then buy a canon or nikon and you can't go wrong!.!.!.!.if you have less then that to spend then buy a Nikon D40x or the D60!.!.sorry I am a Nikon fan!.!.i just think they make cameras that last!.!.!.!.hoped I helped & good luckWww@QuestionHome@Com

Actually, the camera' build DOES matter!. A Lot!

No matter how much you "baby it" (you won't, believe me) an entry level DSLR simply will not last as long!. There are sturdier parts and components you and I can only imagine that make a tremendous difference!. Perhaps the most significant is the shutter!.

Manufacturers build their advanced, and certainly their pro models with shutters that will withstand thousands and thousands more activations than the little guys!.

That alone is probably the biggest factor!.

But, yes!. There absolutely is a huge difference!.

For example, I have a Nikon D100 that's been used constantly - and heavily - for almost six years now!. Under extreme - sometimes - conditions!. Shooting aboard speeding boats, around salt water and sand (I live and work most of the time in Florida)!. It has never faltered!.

And the D100 isn't even top of the line!.

Could a D40 or 60, or a Canon Rebel lasted that long and performed that reliably!? Absolutely not!.Www@QuestionHome@Com