Quote Originally Posted by Ashley8053
I've read a lot of posts about not wasting your time with the XT at this point because of the new options out there, but it's in my budget range, and I'm starting at the most basic level imaginable so I think it will work for me.
Although I agree that the XT is pretty dated, I think you did well. Too many people want a better camera and neglect the lenses, which are really more important. The XT may not have the features and performance of a newer camera, but that's not going to get in the way of you learning the basic principles of photography. And the lenses you got will let you do a lot of stuff that people who blow their whole budget on a new camera and kit lens can't do. The XT will have you out shooting and learning and those lenses will let you experiment on alll kinds of subjects. If you find the XT is getting in the way, you can upgrade before your trip

I recommend taking as many pictures as possible and posting them on our Photo Critique forum or whatever forum you prefer. We can help you figure out whatever problems you encounter as well as give you encouragement and new ideas. Personally, I love watching photographers get inspired