I am looking at the XTI or the 30d! No matter what I am getting the 70-200 L lens. As far as picture quality what camera should I go with. I am very new at this as you can tell. Just looking to capture some great shots of my buddies riding.

30D if you have the funds, for reasons I listed in the last post. I know your common thought is that the XTI has 10 megapixels which is more than the 30D. The reality is that you wont be cropping a ton with that lens so your resolution will look great regardless of the pixel count(and you should not be cropping much in general). Plus as a beginner, framing the subject will be the last of your worries, more important items like, exposure, Depth of field (DOF), Out of Focus (OOF), white balance, post processing, etc. will be common. Going with a 30d will offer better camera functions with enough resolution to allow a GREAT picture. In the chain of cameras the sports photog wants, the xti is still below the 30d for many functions, regardless of resolution. <BR> <BR>If you want more proof, go down to fry's or your local camera store and hold them both and try both of them. You will find what everyone has found, the D-rebel body is uncomfortable at best compared to the 30d.

Hey Matt, <BR> <BR>Thank you so much for taking the time and writing up the detailed response. You are so right on with the comment about the megapixels. I am going to take your advice and go check them both out. <BR> <BR>Thanks again.

No worries Damon, I was in the same boat at one point; only I didnt have the funds for the 30D. It is good and bad that you are going to look at them; good becuase you will have a better idea of how they feel, bad becuase you will end up spending more $, lol. <BR> <BR>Let us know how things work out.