Looking for a SLR camera - any suggestions?

[RGD.]

Originally Posted by Mr.Maduro

. . .
People have been saying the Nikon D80 or Cannon Xsi are good entry-level SLR cameras. I'm still a little partial to Sony.
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I'd like to keep it below $1000, . . .

Nikon or Canon - can't go wrong with either one. I'm partial to (and own) Canon myself in the SLR's but buy the Nikons in the point and shoot.

I'd also recommend the Canon XS - just bought that for my daughter as her entry level. It has everything that you would need to get up and running and to learn on. The kit can be had for under $600 bucks (check Circuit City) and that leaves you money to pick up another lens - maybe a 75/300mm - giving you two lens, and a case for it all.
There is a Canon starter kit for the XSi/XS that will give you a case, UV filter and extra battery for about $100.

But again - you can't go wrong with either the Nikon or Canon. And I would say also that when it's time to upgrade you wont have any problems moving Nikon or Canon equipment since they are the mainstreams. There is no sense in spending any more money than needed to learn on and make sure that's what you want - but you also want to be able to sell or trade equipment later on - and I can't say that there would be a ton of buyers lining up for Sony, etc used equipment.


Ron

[Blueface]

Patrick,
The great thing about digital and a good flash set up is that you can put a photographer out of business.
I could set up a full blown studio with a background and multiple lighting to create a Rembrandt effect but instead, with a good flash, with a Gary Fong diffuser and the light aimed upwards, here is what you can get.
I can make this shot better many ways but why bother? It was a simple point and shoot, totally automatic.

Again, my point is go for the lens quality and make sure you get the best, strongest flash made for that camera and use a good diffuser with bounced lighting (always), all on automatic.
You will soon be a pro.