I just got the Canon 450D and I hate it!!!!

[darrellishere]

What have I done? My D70 is far simpler to use, pick up and shoot!

What bugging me the most, is that I shoot RAW Images and I usually rely heavily on the AUTO Mode!
I always turn off the flash too! Sounds simple enough, but this camera won't let me do either ! RRRRRRRRRR

That is, take raw images in any of the preset modes or over ride the flash in those modes. (The jpeg modes! LOL)

I love photography, but Im not a manual type of guy, I hate the fact I have to preview everything in the manual mode to make sure Ive got the right exposure! Im a street photographer and finding this camera pants and uncomfortable to use!

PS the kit lens is awful too, talk about barrel distortion! LOL !

I feel like my stomach has been pulled out , do Canon think they have gotten the balance right?

This is a camera with a split personality, and it dosn't do either well .

Now I'm dreaming about a D90 and wondering how the hell I can get rid of this lo:)

[Lovesong]

LOL... LOL... I swear the next person that writes LOL after something they've said is getting a free trip to the ER.

OK- about your issues with the Canon 450D:

The camera has 2 Auto modes (as well as 2 semi-auto modes, which I would use if I were you). The green square is a full-auto, P&S, make me some JPGs, and use the flash when the camera decides. The P mode allows exposure compensation, shooting in RAW, and selecting when the flash fires. The manual for your new camera can be found here (http://www.nodevice.com/user_manual/canon/digital_cameras2/eos_digital_rebel_xsi__eos_450d.html).

If you liked the D70 so much, then why did you get the Canon? I've shot both Nikon and Canon, and chose Canon because the Nikon ergonomics didn't make sense to me. Were you to look online, you'd find that most people would actually disagree with me on that.

I have used the kit lens on the D70, and while the 18-70 was a decent enough lens, I think you should check out the 18-55 that comes with the D40 and D60 before bitching about the Canon kit.

The thing about the split personality is just trolling.

[GT41]

I don't know if you are looking for sympathy or what. I don't have a 450D nor do I want one, but I do have Canon gear and I love it. That said your problem looks like a problem of poor research before buying and not playing around with a camera in a store first.
Treat this as the warning... know what you want, and get the thing that does what you want it to. Too much research is always better than too little research.

:)

[SaSaSushi]

I don't know if you are looking for sympathy or what. I don't have a 450D nor do I want one, but I do have Canon gear and I love it. That said your problem looks like a problem of poor research before buying and not playing around with a camera in a store first.
Treat this as the warning... know what you want, and get the thing that does what you want it to. Too much research is always better than too little research.

:)

Well, I DO have the 450D and love it and I happen to agree with what you said 100% about having some idea about what you're buying before handing over the cash (especially for a $600 camera).

I have no qualms with being unable to shoot RAW images in the FULL auto modes. If you want an all auto camera go buy a point and shoot.

Anyway, it's called caveat emptor. If you're not familiar you should look it up. ;)

[darrellishere]

Thanks for the reply's, my opinion is a bit harsh I know!

Thanks for the advice about the P Mode, I'll try it.

I didn't want to open the manual as Im not 100% that I'm happy with it yet and was still umming and arring about returning it.

I'd agree about kit lenses, and will probably opt £200 for a 35-mm lens.

As for research, I think I over researched! Read and watched every review, but should have tested it out in jessops before hand. ;)

I chose to move over to canon, based on the lack of noise I saw in images, and that cannon look to photo's! Felt like I needed switch. But their isn't that much between them anymore, and like the guy said, it also comes down to ergonomic of the camera too.

Im sorry I eat my own words! That P mode is great! That was just what I was looking for and couldn't do!

Live view mode still isn't usable though! Don't get that!

Maybe its time to open that manual.

;) Cheers Guy's!

[valdore]

Uh yeah, hating your new camera is thorough reason to avoid the owner's manual like the plague. Makes as much sense as the rest of this dopey thread.

[darrellishere]

Sorry to step on so many peoples tows :D Thank you LOVESONG! ;)

[vorkorsigan]

Before my wife says it, read the manual 1st! It often pays off even if not reading is more fun - I won't add the L?L world after this as I agreed the 1st reply. Over used and often wrongly!

[Lovesong]

Uh yeah, hating your new camera is thorough reason to avoid the owner's manual like the plague. Makes as much sense as the rest of this dopey thread.

Come on, valdore. The kid is probably like 12, and it's Christmas.

That being said, my initial response to him was not nice.

[AlaskaMoose]

What have I done? My D70 is far simpler to use, pick up and shoot!

What bugging me the most, is that I shoot RAW Images and I usually rely heavily on the AUTO Mode!
I always turn off the flash too! Sounds simple enough, but this camera won't let me do either ! RRRRRRRRRR

That is, take raw images in any of the preset modes or over ride the flash in those modes. (The jpeg modes! LOL)

I love photography, but Im not a manual type of guy, I hate the fact I have to preview everything in the manual mode to make sure Ive got the right exposure! Im a street photographer and finding this camera pants and uncomfortable to use!

PS the kit lens is awful too, talk about barrel distortion! LOL !

I feel like my stomach has been pulled out , do Canon think they have gotten the balance right?

This is a camera with a split personality, and it dosn't do either well .

Now I'm dreaming about a D90 and wondering how the hell I can get rid of this lo:)

Before you give it away as a Christmas present of something, buy a photography guide for it, and learn how to use it. For example, you can switch to P mode, which is fully automatic, but allows you to change most setting manually if that's what you want, including setting it to RAW. However, if not using an external flash, press the flash button for it to pop up. You can also use it on Av mode, which is aperture priority. In this case, you control the lens aperture, and the camera matches it with a shooter speed. Again, if you want to use the built-in flash, press the button first. The next mode is Tv (shutter priority). In this mode you control the shooter speed, and the camera matches it with the proper aperture. The only manual mode is M, and all the modes below P are fully automatic (including popping the flash up).

[ChrisA]

Sorry to step on so many peoples tows :D Thank you LOVESONG! ;)

I'm really surprized that anyone would trade a D70 for a 450D. The cameras are so much alike that what is gained? I'm just curious, did you want some specific Canon lens that Nikon did not have?

Any way as you found out the "P" mode is what you want. I tend to use either "P" or "A" on my Nikon. Both modes work identically on the D70 and Canon so I'm surprised you'd not know about "P" from the Nikon.

[AlaskaMoose]

Im sorry I eat my own words! That P mode is great! That was just what I was looking for and couldn't do!

Live view mode still isn't usable though! Don't get that!

Maybe its time to open that manual.

;) Cheers Guy's!

LOL:D:DThat's quite funny. The manual has too much data, and not very good examples on how to use the camera. Buy a photography guide for it. I am certain that David D. Bush already has such guide written specifically for it. I have one for my 40D.

Here it is:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1598635786

[wheelhot]

Hmm, if you are a street photographer who uses the camera in full auto, why get a DSLR? I assume you want a DSLR is because of the image will be clear?

You should get a high-end PnS, it doesn't have pop up flash so you dont need to press any button to get the flash up, its live view is better then a DSLR, and it will get clear images easily, maybe you should go with the PnS with DSLR size sensor (forgot its name). Besides, its portability will beat any DSLR no probs.

[seenew]

Hmm, if you are a street photographer who uses the camera in full auto, why get a DSLR? I assume you want a DSLR is because of the image will be clear?

You should get a high-end PnS, it doesn't have pop up flash so you dont need to press any button to get the flash up, its live view is better then a DSLR, and it will get clear images easily, maybe you should go with the PnS with DSLR size sensor (forgot its name). Besides, its portability will beat any DSLR no probs.

Seconded.
I really don't understand using any Auto modes on a dSLR. I will shoot in semi-auto, like aperture or shutter priority, but come on, even then the camera rarely gives you what you want. How hard is it to read the meter that's right there on top of the camera AND in the viewfinder?


I'll also toss my hat in the ring and say this is a ridiculous thread.



LOL

[jessica.]

Im sorry I eat my own words! That P mode is great! That was just what I was looking for and couldn't do!

Live view mode still isn't usable though! Don't get that!

Maybe its time to open that manual.

;) Cheers Guy's!

RTFM LOL LOL LOL
But seriously you should. You'll love your camera even more.

[wheelhot]

I really don't understand using any Auto modes on a dSLR. I will shoot in semi-auto, like aperture or shutter priority, but come on, even then the camera rarely gives you what you want. How hard is it to read the meter that's right there on top of the camera AND in the viewfinder?

Yeah, you got it right.

If I want speed and there is good lighting, I will shoot in AV. But if there is not enough lighting and my lens got no IS, it will be TV. I understand that the image will be darker.

Hmm, so besides creativity (and trying to get the effect you want) what other uses of full manual? Considering that full manual will take slightly longer time to take the shot.

Dont take this any personal OP, just need to understand.

[FrankieTDouglas]

I love photography, but Im not a manual type of guy, I hate the fact I have to preview everything in the manual mode to make sure Ive got the right exposure! Im a street photographer and finding this camera pants and uncomfortable to use!

I'm still chuckling at someone not knowing how to work a basic function on a camera, yet still knowing exactly what type of photographer they are.

You have to learn your tools before you can define your trade.

[OreoCookie]

If you're unhappy, then return the Canon for a Nikon (since you have used Nikon before). The D80 is a good bargin and a very good upgrade to the D70 (the viewfinder alone is worth the money).

[Digital Skunk]

I'm still chuckling at someone not knowing how to work a basic function on a camera, yet still knowing exactly what type of photographer they are.

You have to learn your tools before you can define your trade.

You said it brother!

But nowadays that's what we get with the internet photogs and "Digital Photography for Dummies" learners. Not cracking on the OP specifically.

But that part blew my mind, defining themselves as a street photographer (which everyone seems to be doing now for various reasons:rolleyes:and not being very good at it.:rolleyes:) yet not knowing how to use a camera.

[wheelhot]

If you're unhappy, then return the Canon for a Nikon (since you have used Nikon before). The D80 is a good bargin and a very good upgrade to the D70 (the viewfinder alone is worth the money).

Well he could do that but it still doesnt run away from the fact that he is not using a DSLR to its potential, might as well he stick with a high-end PnS (there is one with the DSLR size sensor) because its portability will fit his street photography more.

I wonder why did he upgrade his body in the first place and judging cause he switch from Nikon to Canon I guess he got no lens to lose by switching to different company?

[OreoCookie]

Well he could do that but it still doesnt run away from the fact that he is not using a DSLR to its potential, might as well he stick with a high-end PnS (there is one with the DSLR size sensor) because its portability will fit his street photography more.
That's right, but there are plenty of people out there not using their gear to the fullest potential. And perhaps they don't want to invest the time in it. Even if the OP manages to use the Canon later on, it seems it still wouldn't feel as `natural' as his Nikon.
I wonder why did he upgrade his body in the first place and judging cause he switch from Nikon to Canon I guess he got no lens to lose by switching to different company?
Perhaps it was a Christmas present? Or the OP bought a camera based on specs? Dunno.

@Digital Skunk
There are plenty of photographers who aren't `the technical type,' who think in terms of look and not exposure information. You don't need to know what an aperture of f/2.8 means to know that you'd like to take pictures of people in the park or subway.

[Digital Skunk]

@Digital Skunk
There are plenty of photographers who aren't `the technical type,' who think in terms of look and not exposure information. You don't need to know what an aperture of f/2.8 means to know that you'd like to take pictures of people in the park or subway.

True, but I wasn't talking about the technical type. Learning how to use your gear is something completely different from being a "gear head" and just knowing a lot of technology behind the imaging sensor and AF engine.

And I disagree about knowing what an aperture of f/2.8 means. That's the fundamentals of image making and something that shouldn't be left out. Just like knowing what ISO values do for your images and the limitations of your camera body and lenses.

Not knowing is being just what I said... an internet photographer and/or "DP for Dummies" learner. Nothing wrong with trying to learn how to take better pictures for soccer games and birthday parties, but to call oneself a street photographer and want to make good images one should know about the tools they are using and how said tools effect their final images.

This is also the reason why the OP switched in the first place. They should have known that the IQ from the D70 to the 450D wouldn't change much at all, with the newer Canon body having the slight edge. But doing research would have led them to the D80 or D90 which would have been the perfect upgrade path.

Not knowing the technical side of photography is also what gets shooters not knowing how to use state-of-the-art gear like the Nikon D300 or D3 or Canon 1DIII and complaining about their final images.

In photography, just like many other fields, you have to know both the theory and practice. You have to have experience shooting, and technical knowledge of the tools and technique used. Some lean more to the left than the right, and many are in the middle. But being completely on one side will leave a shooter with great gear (D300) and poor images.

[OreoCookie]

In theory, you're right and people would only make informed decision, be it when buying a car, a camera or a computer. And theoretically, theory and praxis are the same. Practically, they're not ;)

I agree that people should know their gear better, even their old gear. But on the other hand, the OP's reaction was quite clear: he wasn't interested in an explanation on how to use his new camera, it was a rant that he couldn't use his new camera. According to his own words, he could use his Nikon better. And since the technical possibilities are pretty much the same on both cameras, he can learn more effectively with a camera that he feels more familiar with.

I fully support your call for the OP to learn more about photography, but I think he should start with a camera that he feels comfortable with.

[wheelhot]

Excellent replies (is it me or the photogs community at MR is getting better? :cool:)

Anyway you made a good persuasive point there OreoCookie. I end up agree with you that the OP should change to Nikon if that is what he is more comfortable with but I also agree that he needs to learn how to use other DSLR functions in order to make good use of it.

Well since he didn't even use his Nikon to full extent and leave it to full auto, I guess it doesn't matter which system he use cause he didn get use with the common DSLR camera functions like Aperture, EV, Exposure - One of the reason why I decided to choose Canon in the first place is because Nikon entry level model got no wheels to adjust basic settings, I dun like a lot of button clicking just to change basic features. From the way I see it, I do hope Canon change their strategy for the 5D (more AF would be nice or at least wider AF).

I also like the fact that it is easier to understand Canon lens and their terminology.

[Digital Skunk]

In theory, you're right and people would only make informed decision, be it when buying a car, a camera or a computer. And theoretically, theory and praxis are the same. Practically, they're not ;)

I agree that people should know their gear better, even their old gear. But on the other hand, the OP's reaction was quite clear: he wasn't interested in an explanation on how to use his new camera, it was a rant that he couldn't use his new camera. According to his own words, he could use his Nikon better. And since the technical possibilities are pretty much the same on both cameras, he can learn more effectively with a camera that he feels more familiar with.

I fully support your call for the OP to learn more about photography, but I think he should start with a camera that he feels comfortable with.

Oh yeah, that is the truth. In a perfect world people would make informed decisions about everything they choose... but we all know what type of world we do live in, especially in regards to consumption.

I agree with those that say the OP should have kept their D70, maybe moved up to a D70s or D80. Even know I am finding out all the technical methods used to pull amazing images from my D2xs and D2hs. I know their limits, but I haven't maxed out the abilities of either body just yet.

For example, shooting JPEG with a D2h or x yields decent/useable images at ISO 1600 while for years I wouldn't dare go above ISO800.

[rouxeny]

There are a stunning number of people who have invested in digital SLR's and yet persist in shooting on the green rectangle, or whatever the equivalent on their camera is.

I first noticed that while on a cruise, but now pretty much see it everywhere. Nice cameras, nice equipment, no skill.

It'd be great if people spent a little less on kit and a little more on books or classes.

[Digital Skunk]

There are a stunning number of people who have invested in digital SLR's and yet persist in shooting on the green rectangle, or whatever the equivalent on their camera is.

I first noticed that while on a cruise, but now pretty much see it everywhere. Nice cameras, nice equipment, no skill.

It'd be great if people spent a little less on kit and a little more on books or classes.

Personally speaking, they can spend their cash on a DSLR and use the green settings and Auto all day. If it helps them get better images then why not. I think the lack of innovation and improved IQ in the P&S market has gotten many people upgrading to DSLRs.

I don't even mind seeing shooters with D300's or D700's shooting family graduations and such. Knock themselves out indeed.

What pains me the most is someone that has that gear, with no skill, attempting to be called a pro with no proper schooling or training and then let others know that such training isn't needed. Then assume that they themselves can break into the imaging industry and make money, but end up regurgitating the same styles and images that others have pioneered.

[compuwar]

There are a stunning number of people who have invested in digital SLR's and yet persist in shooting on the green rectangle, or whatever the equivalent on their camera is.

I first noticed that while on a cruise, but now pretty much see it everywhere. Nice cameras, nice equipment, no skill.

It'd be great if people spent a little less on kit and a little more on books or classes.

On the other hand, they tend to upgrade very frequently and make a nice source of gently used equipment in pristine condition. In the 70's and 80's in the Nikon world the in joke was that Doctors were allowed to purchase Nikons so photographers would have a good source of gently used equipment.

[FrankieTDouglas]

There are plenty of photographers who aren't `the technical type,' who think in terms of look and not exposure information. You don't need to know what an aperture of f/2.8 means to know that you'd like to take pictures of people in the park or subway.

The aperture isn't just a function for exposure. It's one of the only two ways used to adjust depth of field (the other being camera to subject distance). Not knowing how that works handcuffs someone tremendously when composing images and deciding focus.

[peskaa]

There are a stunning number of people who have invested in digital SLR's and yet persist in shooting on the green rectangle, or whatever the equivalent on their camera is.

I first noticed that while on a cruise, but now pretty much see it everywhere. Nice cameras, nice equipment, no skill.

It'd be great if people spent a little less on kit and a little more on books or classes.

Seeing as the bottom level dSLRs are now as cheap as good compacts used to be a few years ago, I'm really not suprised that the "average" consumer is buying them. Picking up a 1000D/450D + kit lens isn't the investment it used to be (I spent £1000 on my 300D five years ago, which is much more of a big spend). It's like going back to film SLRs where you could pick up a basic model for a few hundred, but technology has evolved to a point where they're now digital.

Case in point, a base level film SLR is only £100 cheaper than a base dSLR. To most people, that's a no-brainer equation.


Though I do get annoyed when I see somebody with a 1D and L lenses who doesn't know what they're doing. At that point, I'm tempted to go beat them over the head with my 70-200 until they see sense.

[OreoCookie]

The aperture isn't just a function for exposure. It's one of the only two ways used to adjust depth of field (the other being camera to subject distance). Not knowing how that works handcuffs someone tremendously when composing images and deciding focus.
Are you trying to explain to me what effect different apertures have on pictures??

[wheelhot]

Though I do get annoyed when I see somebody with a 1D and L lenses who doesn't know what they're doing. At that point, I'm tempted to go beat them over the head with my 70-200 until they see sense.

What! You met these kind of people before????

[FrankieTDouglas]

Are you trying to explain to me what effect different apertures have on pictures??

When you equated it as only a function of exposure, and not that of the look as well.

[Digital Skunk]

What! You met these kind of people before????

Yeah, who hasn't. Here's the website of one of them. (http://kenrockwell.com/)

[wheelhot]

Yeah, who hasn't. Here's the website of one of them.

Lol, that was unexpected. Erm, are you sure he use his camera in full auto? Cause I dont think so :confused:

[darrellishere]

Thanks for everyones advice, I didn't expect such constructive criticism from just discovered MR community, but you have definitely highlighted my skills gap and its something I can no longer ignore!

My ultimate desire is to produce beautiful large print images , and 12 mega pixel image sensor is something I dreamed about when I was at University studying photo-visual studies back in 2001!
(Hence the choice of the Canon 450d).

When everyone was still using film, but I embraced digital photography. The only thing was I never learnt about the basic principles of film photography well enough..(e.g. One Lesson).

So I'v never really attempted anything out side of the arty & photojournalism realm.

For example nothing like the images you get on interfacelift.com!

So intelligent cameras I become totally reliant on. Without knowing it!
Also :apple: Aperture & RAW images combined, always gave me total control.

(I know I'v been deluding myself:) by not knowing the basics!

Now I need to get back on track, push past my photographers block :) go and tackle that huge missing gap? Called Skills! :rolleyes:

& maybe then I can go and do that, night time city scape photography I've been dreaming about.


Here's a face book link to some of my street work, done on my D70, for anyone thats interested.

P.S some of the work hasn't been post produced, as I threw it on so exposures are a bit off , etc. LOL! ;)

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2003138&l=8ffc1&id=1408702913

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2001924&l=d7406&id=1408702913

[JNB]

Yeah, who hasn't. Here's the website of one of them. (http://kenrockwell.com/)

He's more a technician than artist. And from the looks of his works, there's about a 1:60 ratio of composition to Photoshopping. Same ratio of talent to hardware.

[darrellishere]

I just wanted to say I'm getting nice sharp low light shots in TV mode.

Kit Lens 18-55 is not so bad. I'm digging the 70-200mm .

Start saving me thinks. Done 50mm to death, 24 & 28 is on this kit lens although the sample images I've seen around are supper sharp!

;) Thanks guy's! I think this Canon is going to usher in a new level of photogrpahy for me . Glad I made the switch!

[wheelhot]

Well anyway, glad that you are finally liking your camera and dont hesitate to post some of your street pics.

For your purpose, since you need speed. Half manual should do perfectly well but dont be scared of using full manual. Play with it cause it will give some interesting effect ;)

Hmm, I think the 70-200 will be too big for street photography. Just my op though. Unless you prefer to stand far away from the subject then that is a whole different story :), sort of benefit though cause you can secretly snap some photos without people realizing who are you shooting.

[UMHurricanes34]

I wish Canon and Nikon would create a way to disable their products until the user has read the manual.

ESPECIALLY DSLRs. Every question you have is answered in the manual. Live Mode issues, the explanations of the modes and their advantages and disadvantages, etc.

It's all there. I love my XSi, it's the best entry-level DSLR I've ever used, and it can do some pretty amazing things. You just need to read about how to do them.

If you don't like manual mode, why didn't you just get a G10 or high end Nikon P&S? DSLR's aren't designed for the "full auto" type.

Put it in M and mess around! You'll learn a lot by experimenting.

[valdore]

I think 90% of my time is spent in Aperture Priority - just seems to work for me, for my uses, and my level of development. And it seems to me the most versatile of the semi-auto modes.

[UMHurricanes34]

I think 90% of my time is spent in Aperture Priority - just seems to work for me, for my uses, and my level of development. And it seems to me the most versatile of the semi-auto modes.

I used to shoot this way also, but I've really grown to love Shutter Priority. I like having a set shutter speed that I can then allow the other settings to be adjusted to keep that shutter speed. I find that the shutter truly is the priority in preventing blurry pictures in many situations and this is my favorite of the semi-Auto modes.

I'll still take full Manual over anything, any day.

[gnd]

I think 90% of my time is spent in Aperture Priority - just seems to work for me, for my uses, and my level of development. And it seems to me the most versatile of the semi-auto modes.

I use Aperture Priority almost all the time too, except when I'm using a lens that has manual aperture. Then I have to use Manual mode and have to push an extra button to meter at the set aperture and the camera suggests shutter speed. I guess that's also Aperture Priority in a way :)

[OreoCookie]

My ultimate desire is to produce beautiful large print images , and 12 mega pixel image sensor is something I dreamed about when I was at University studying photo-visual studies back in 2001!
(Hence the choice of the Canon 450d).
Well, the difference in megapixels (10 vs. 12) is negligible, especially if you don't use any `real' lens with your camera. Canon's 40D also has 10 and is still a `better camera' than its smaller siblings.

Just out of curiosity, what exactly did you find limiting with your old camera?

[wheelhot]

I use Aperture Priority almost all the time too, except when I'm using a lens that has manual aperture. Then I have to use Manual mode and have to push an extra button to meter at the set aperture and the camera suggests shutter speed. I guess that's also Aperture Priority in a way

Make that....erm, how many posts has it been about people using AV more?

Well most of the time, I will use AV but if I want to get sharp images (that happens only when AV fails me) I will usually shoot in TV but of course it could me the photo will be biased towards the darker side (I bet a faster lens would not need the use of TV).

Hmm, so sometime it makes me wonder, when is the only practical time to use full manual?

[valdore]

Hmm, so sometime it makes me wonder, when is the only practical time to use full manual?


Good question. And for me I believe about the only time I go full manual is when I need to manually bracket my exposures in smaller, incremental stops, like if I need five or more source images for a very, very contrast-y scene that I'm going to do HDR on, and also happen to have my tripod there.

[OreoCookie]

Hmm, so sometime it makes me wonder, when is the only practical time to use full manual?
I use it when using the flash quite a bit, e. g. when I need to freeze the motion while using my bazooka zoom (1/60 s is not good enough for that, gives halos).

[JNB]

Another heavy Av preference. For me it's a matter of predetermining the DOF I want in a particular shot more than anything. I use Tv seldom, and only go full manual when I'm spending the day out and can take that little extra time setting everything up to my desires. Random "snapshotting" is almost always P mode (I'd love to disable the green square altogether!). I absolutely despise the built-in flash.

[shady825]

I don't know if you are looking for sympathy or what. I don't have a 450D nor do I want one, but I do have Canon gear and I love it. That said your problem looks like a problem of poor research before buying and not playing around with a camera in a store first.
Treat this as the warning... know what you want, and get the thing that does what you want it to. Too much research is always better than too little research.

:)

I couldnt have said it better! Before i bought my Canon I read everything I could find about it and played with it in the store a dozen times before I bought it..

[Phrasikleia]

Hmm, so sometime it makes me wonder, when is the only practical time to use full manual?

I was using full manual today when my XSi for some reason was metering erratically. I was set up on a tripod, and the light was changing a bit with the clouds moving overhead, but the shots were veering from 1/60 to 1/3sec for some reason. I got annoyed and finally just switched over to full manual to get the camera to do what I wanted. But that's rare. My usual mode is Av. I occasionally use Tv with my 100mm prime in low light, just to make sure I get sharp shots.

[luminosity]

I'm an aperture priority person as well.

A great book to read at the beginning is Bryan Peterson's "Understanding Exposure," not to mention his book "Understanding Shutter Speed." You can also read an informative article written by him at Photo.net, which is basically a summation of everything in his books. Link: http://photo.net/learn/basic-photo-tips/aperture-shutterspeed-iso/

One time I generally go into manual mode is when I'm facing a backlighting situation that will result in the subject(s) being hard to see if I let the camera choose the shutter speed.

[darrellishere]

Thanks that was an interesting and easy to understand article.