If you wanting to learn photography, and you want to worry about different lens and how much they cost, a Nikon D40 and that ilk are great. :)

If you want the power of an SLR, but you don't want to fuss too much and prefer it to be more like a point and click, the Canon Powershot SX301S is pretty awesome, I own one of those and love it. :) This one: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-SX30IS-Digital-Optical-Stabilized/dp/B0041RSPR8/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1306194754&sr=8-10 It also has video. It's the high end of point and click. :)

I highly recommend a SLR camera over a point and shoot. They're more versatile, and you can take a photo within a second of turning it on, and don't have to wait between pictures.

I prefer Canon over Nikon, but the same argument is comparing Ford to Chevrolet. They're both decent products, it's just a matter of what you prefer.


If I was to buy a new DSLR now, this is what I'd buy: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ.....el_XS_SLR.html
I've been buying camera stuff from B&H for 15 years now, and they've always had the best prices, quick shipping and good service.

Personally, I shoot with a Canon Digital Rebel that I bought it 2005. I've taken well over 100,000 photos, and it still works fine.

canon. without a doubt. sure a nikon shoots sharper... BUT a canon is a great first dslr camera. its easy to use, its very very user friendly. nikon is not

I highly suggest a Canon or Nikon D-SLR camera. I've used both for product photography through my work and I have seen armature photographers using better and more expensive cameras than what I use. Basically, it is all about how you set up your shots and lighting. If you can do those two things then touch up work in Photoshop or other photo editing software is simple.

Ill kep it short and sweet. Go to te store and say "i want a nikon D3100" they com in a package with 2 lenses a bag tri pod an everything you will need. They also do hd video. I was in the same boat as you knew nothing and this has realy helped. It is also in your price range.

I have a Canon 7D which I love dearly but it it way over your price. Maybe you could find a used one but it would be tough. A Canon T2i is the next step down which finding one used around your price may be easier. They are easy to use cameras and they make it easy to switch from consumer use to more professional use as you learn how to use it. Also finding lens for Canon cameras always seems a lot easier and cheaper in my experience. =D