Does the 550D have a time lapse function (stills), or does it require an additional device like the TC-80N3. If so, are there other alternatives?

Philip Bloom linked to the one he used

First thoughts on Rebel T2i/ 550D | Philip Bloom (http://philipbloom.co.uk/2010/02/26/first-thoughts-on-rebel-t2i-550d/)

Thanks Barron, very useful link.

What is the deal with the Opteka Bloom mentions? Amazon seems to be the only vendor for it and it's now "currently unavailable" with no estimated date for returning to inventory. Is this the only third party way to do timelapse on the T2i?

I have this one and it works great. You can program it to take up to 399 photos and it has an "infinity" setting that lets you take an unlimited number of photos also. Nice price too.

LCD Timer Remote Control 4 Canon 500D 450D G11 RS-60E3 - eBay (item 220566711929 end time May-04-10 03:22:04 PDT) (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220566711929&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT)

Awesome! Thanks David!

I recently bought the opteka timer remote for the 550d and was just wondering if anyone can give me some little starter tips on how to properly setup the remote and the camera for time lapse?

Possibly what mode you should have the dial in and maybe some of the manuel settings I need to set. Also, just how to use the remote in general as the instruction booklet isn't too helpful.

Really wanna time lapse Mars later this month when it's closest and any help would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Use the utility software that came with the camera. You can totaly control the camera and do timelapse using the USB port thru a Laptop.

eBay is full of good cheap timer remotes for the 550D, mine was about $20 and works really well.

I have the Aputure Timer Remote Controler AP-TR1C picked up on ebay for about $20 or so. Used it a few times, including walking around with it running. Works fine. It looks similar to the opteka.