Good photos. Is Kiki a Maine Coon?

My last view camera was a Kodak Viewmaster, 4X5, with Ektar lens. It was old but beautiful.

The Canon Rebel is an excellent tool.

The Canon Rebel is a neat little camera. Photo quality, of course, depends on the photographer and his/her lenses.

"Lightweight" tripod and "large format" are mutually exclusive terms.

Maybe it's better to avoid sunspots. One great way to do this is to always use a sunshade. Another way is to avoid shooting into the sun.

This is excellent advice. Until you sit down and think out the kinds of photography you want to do you cannot make intelligent decisions about the gear you will need.

When deciding what camera to buy, be aware that many people have amotional investment in the camera gear they own; therefore they may try to tell you that their specific marque is the only one to buy. Beware of other's absolutes.

Research as many camera, lens and equipment reviews as you can before committing yourself. Be aware that whatever camera system you decide to go with, you need not be not feel restricted to lenses, flashgear and certain minor peripherals from that same maker.

Do not neglect high quality tripods and quick attachment devices.

Again, whatever you decide, you should consider buying the best quality lenses you can afford. IMO, the specific camera model is not as important as lens quality.

If you seek advice from camera shop, buy as much of your order as possible from them. I think it is unconsionable to take up their time and benefit from their knowledge without spending money there. A caveat: some camera dealers will advise you to purchase whatever specific brand of camera the OEM gives them the best salex incentives.

And, again, good luck.

A family friend gave me a Brownie 620 when I was seven. Mom couldn't afford film then but I thought about that camera- a LOT. When I got my first job I bought a 35mm Kodak Pony and never looked back.