What's the better dSLR?

Question

Ok so I've been interested in buying a dSLR lately and have been researching adamantly about it. I've looked on various camera review sites but I was wondering if there was anyone here who had experience with any dSLRs that are particularly good enough for them to recommend. I'm an amateur photographer & I understand that skill is a necessity that doesn't come with the camera but I really just want the best bang for my buck, as in I've got a limited budget and can't afford anything over $1K. I'm a spontaneous photographer and my last cameras have been nothing more than the regular point & shoot cameras, polaroids, etc. My family seems to dig Canon in particular though, and [from the overall review] they seem to be the most consumer friendly and inexpensive make of all the digital SLRs. I'm totally open to any kind of new suggestions though [i.e. other makes & models].

We're also looking for a dSLR that has more than 7.2 megapixels.. =/

Answer 1

Both Canon and Nikon make great cameras for under a grand. Canon offers the Rebel series. Nikon offers the D40 or D40x. I would personally reccomend the Nikons, I think they are the better value. Take a look at both. If the 6 mega pixels is enough for you on the d40 then I would suggest using the extra money to purchase a nikkor 55-200 vr lens for $200-250

If you really want more than 7.2 megapixels then the D40x is the way to go. It has 10 megapixels. It contains many of the features of the many times more expensive pro cameras. It is a fantastic camera that you can pick up for about $700. It's advanced yet easy thanks to the features aimed at helping people such as yourself (and me at the time I bought one). It contains a "?" mark button which clearly explains the option you have selected in case you were confused. On top of that it has a picture sample to go along with many options so you can see what effect it will have on the pic. Don't think that these helpful settings make it any less of a great camera, they are there to help ease the transition from point and shoot and help you get the most out of a great camera. Once your comfortable you can change the settings to a more "professional" look.

http://www.stunningnikon.com/picturetown/

http://www.nikonusa.com/template.php?cat=1&grp=2&productNr=25420

Answer 2

If you have family members who own Canon DSLRs and have lenses you could borrow then go with a Canon. If not, then you have more options.

Although everyone in here says Nikon or Canon, I usually suggest looking at the newer Pentax line of DSLRs.

Why?

Because the Pentax K100D, K100D Super and K10D all have the Image Stabilization (IS) in the camera body. Plus, every K-mount lens ever made will mount to them. That gives you access to a lot of quality glass. Although the older lenses will require manual focus, they will have the advantage of the IS and you will find that very useful IMO.

The K100D and K100D Super are both 6.1mp; the Super adds "Dust Removal" to keep the sensor clean. The K10D has 10mp and "Dust Removal" and is very well sealed against dust and moisture. It also has the contacts for the new DA lenses Pentax is releasing. If you can live w/o dust removal and the DA lenses the K100D would be a good choice. It should be dropping in price so you will have more money for lenses.

Good luck and happy shopping.