New DSLR - Canon Rebel T2i 550D

Never content to sit around and twiddle their thumbs, Canon has announced the release of their latest Digital Rebel: the T2i 550D.

The T2i 550D is a follow-up to the Canon Rebel T1i 500D, the first Digital Rebel to include a video capture mode (Full High Definition 1080p).

The T2i enhances that video mode, providing aspiring videographers with manual exposure control, autofocus during video capture and an input for an external microphone.

In addition to the video mode, the T2i 550D can capture 18 megapixel images at 3.7 shots per second.

When you want to show off your photos and videos, you just plug the camera into an HDTV using an HDMI cable (not supplied with the camera). If your television has what's called a "Consumer Electronics Control" then you'll be able to control the camera playback using your TV remote.

The LCD on the T2i 550D has a wide aspect ratio designed to maximize the quality of video and image playback if you don't happen to have an HDTV nearby.

Since Full HD video files can eat up a lot of space, the T2i is compatible with the latest SD memory cards called SDXC.

• Release Date: March 2010
• Estimated Kit Price (with lens): $900 USD