Everything is Permuted

Darko, thanks. I just love days like that!

Doug, I've got a 40D (used to have a 400D). It's great and prices now are excellent given that the 50D has been out a while. It works a treat. I've got it set up so that for daylight I use the * button on the rear of the camera to focus which (once you get used to it) really helps for small subjects on irregular backgrounds and helps avoid too many missed shots when the subject (or photographer) moves off line. I also use the 'custom' feature which allows quick changing between pre-sets. I've got three options which I use for night photography (different ISO, shutter speed etc and all set to use the shutter button for focusing which is easier when you've got a torch in the other hand).

No shutter problems that I can think of. I've had it a year (so around 40000 actuations ) and I think possibly twice I've had a 'slow' shutter for a single frame (I nearly always shoot multiples anyway) which resulted in over exposure.

The main problem I've had with the 100-400 is the zoom ring going loose (and then going 'tight'). That is a design flaw with the lens. They have a reputation for dust gathering but the impact on images is zero to be honest (the real dust problems with DSLRs are on the sensor, but the 40D (like most new cameras) has a self-cleaning system which helps a lot. A quick use of a blower generally deals with any problems (which only show on small aperture macros and very occasionally on sky shots).

The big costs are lenses, especially those with image stabilization. I've only got IS on two of mine. It's useful in some situations but not essential (a monopod and tilt head can really make a difference with or without IS). Primes will out-perform zooms, but are obviously more restrictive in certain circumstances. The Sigma lenses are generally excellent (and slightly lower priced) alternatives to Canon and are heavily used for wildlife shooting.

The Sony system has in-built IS which I have to admit would be nice. Much praised on the Chthonic Wildlife Ramblings blog here. If I were thinking of an alternative that's the one I would probably look at, as non-IS lenses are cheaper and lighter. That said, I can't see that you'd go far wrong with the Canon (not much between the 40D and 50D from reports I've read).

Adele, the coast is perfect a this time of year, but it does get windy (it was almost impossible to walk at times) and I'd noticed the cooler air coming in over the past few days.

Cynthia, thanks! It was good out there. Not the roughest day I've seen, but just about right for spending time out fighting the wind.

No problem Doug. You'll enjoy the Canon!

Mark, thanks! I love windy days by the beach (though I could have done with less wind over the past week).