Choosing the Perfect Camera

Hello everyone!!
I've decided to quit lurking and start talking. I've seen some beautiful pictures taken by everyone in the forums. So I figured I'd ask your opinions on cameras. I plan on using my tax refund plus some saved up money to buy myself a nice DSLR. Right now I have a point and shoot (Casio Exilim)that I love but I want something that I can play with more.
I think I have narrowed it down to a Nikon or Canon.

So please leave your opinions, thoughts, etc. What kind of camera do you use? What would you recommend?

Thanks everyone!:thumbup:

The best advice is to go to a camera store (like a Ritz or Wolf or something) and play with the Canon's and Nikon's. One of them will feel better in your hands, or you'll like the menu options better, and that's the most important thing.

What model you should get depends on what you want to do and how much money you're willing to invest on lenses and such. Check out http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/recommended-cameras.htm for some good info.

I am a Nikon girl all the way!

First welcome to the forums!! Now as for your question I love the Canon Rebel XSi...I would say you should go to the store and check out a bunch of cameras and see which one you really like the most. You can get the best camera according to ratings/recomendations but if it doesnt feel right in your hands and you dont like the controls or find them difficult to navigate itll do you no good. Good luck!!

Thanks for those replies!!