Summary: Good beginner outfit

Comment: I had not used a digital SLR before purchasing the XSi. The camera has many good reviews in e.g. consumers reports - one of the best 100 products. I think my past experience with point-and-shoot Canon cameras helped me decide to buy this product because I was familiar with the Zoombrowser software and trusted the Canon name. At first, I was horrified to find that the primary shooting modes for the camera do not allow use of the LCD display to formulate shots. I own a 35mm SLR film camera and was not good at using it so having another SLR where I would have to make settings in most modes made me anticipate poor outcomes. But, after reading the manual and using the DVD's that came with this package, I was more confident in composing shots and setting up the camera and have done very well in my first month of ownership. And, I discovered the live shooting mode that does allow the use of the LCD display. I would recommend this camera and the outfit to anyone moving up to a digital SLR because the camera gives you all the capability you can handle (for now) and the accessories and materials really move you into a new awareness of how to take great shots. I am quite happy with the camera and the package. I would recommend that anyone buying the camera also get the battery pack and an upgraded memory card (4 GB comes with the camera).