The camera is neither when photographing still when shooting a fully automatic clippers. If as people produce bad images, you had better not enter by itself. They only show that they have no idea. Read the manual and practice helps a lot. One has today not so much training money to pay as before, where each faulty picture has also cost money. The camera is in terms of noise the best of what is currently offered in the market in this price range. Had the people used to have their photos pull in A4 or even A3, the photography would become extinct because of continuous frustration. I like to take pictures in churches. And if I now my pictures that I did then with ASA 800 or even 1600, which compare the 500D, the 500D worlds is doing better. What I want to be sure but going on here. Caution: Currently, the camera when you buy a kit with 18-55mm lens available in two versions The Lens: EF-S 18-55 mm IS (IS = image stabilization) and the Lens: EF-S 18-55 mm (this is the simple lens) The former is the version for Germany with German manual and 2-year guarantee / warranty. The second is European / Eastern European or otherwise for a market. As often lack a manual in German. I suggest you check with the Internet dealer. Even if it is offered as the lens with the image stabilizer is not always with this lens. Then usually lack even the German manual. Have fun with your EOS 500D