With the XSi you have live view. It comes in real handy for macro shots. The best thing for macro is to; 1. Use a tripod. 2. Engage the "live view". 3. Use Manual focus. Make sure you have sufficient lighting. The on-board camera flash will not be that good for this particular set up because it will probably cast a shadow from the lens but you can try it. If you have another flash for the hot shoe or a ring flash that would also mount on the front of the lens, that will be best. Of course, that is if you need a flash in the first place. And the beauty with digital, take a LOT of shots! You can delete whatever you don't like. Let me know how this helps and I will be glad to help you with any further guidance!

What type of macro do you have? Is it an entire dedicated macro lens, like your 18-55mm, that you replace your kit lens with or, do you have the type that screws on the front like a filter?

It was recommended that the Fast Stone image editor and viewer would be an excellent free software. Does anyone know if you can actually edit RAW images in this? Thanks!!!

Yes, but can you edit RAW files?

You can view RAW but can you edit the files?

I just realized also that on that link I sent you there is one review, written by me on that flash. It's not the Canon, by any means, but it is great for the money! I got mine for around $40 bucks and the auction is at the same price. You should be able to get it for around the same price. $40 is a lot better than $500!

I don't know if this would interest you but, Sakar Digital Concepts makes a pretty good, and cheap alternative. Model 952 AF. It has all the bells and whistles but of course, it's not the Canon. I have one because I couldn't afford the Canon now and it's pretty darn good for the money. Check it out!


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sakar-Digital-Concepts-952AF-Shoe-Mount-Flash-Canon-/270876074007?pt=Digital_Camera_Flashes&hash=item3f1178e017

I don't know if you saw my post but you could try http://rawtherapee.com/
You did say for RAW?

What do you mean?

I went the same way! Great camera, without the video, and gives me just the right options with live view, sensor cleaning and that nice big screen.

I believe that when it is the tripod that you want the IS off to limit the necessary movement caused by the IS movement itself. No need for it while you are mounted on a tripod.

I don't either. The quality of the lens is the most important factor. Like it was previously said, "what were we doing before IS came along?" I find myself using the tripod or just steadying myself against a wall for my Image Stabilization. I would pick a better lens with no IS long before an inferior one that does have it!

By the way, it's free too!! You can make a donation if you want.

I just came across a great RAW editor! It is; www.http://rawtherapee.com

Give it a whirl!!!!!!!!!!

I think what they were asking was if you were purchasing a new outfit, which would be better. In lens IS or VR has the ability to still a shaky image while you are viewing, which is a nice feature, where in camera body does not, (I don't think???).