What DSLR to buy?

[Jengerbread88]

Tomorrow, I'm going out to buy my DSLR.

Here's the problem. I need to know what you recommend I get. I don't know what I want, and I've read a million reviews.

I need something user-friendly, that I can start out simple but still learn how to use it a lot more... I want something that doesn't take a TON of learning how to use at first, but still something that I can learn to use more when I have the time, if that makes sense.

I'm looking for something in the under $650 range or so, but I think I could go up to $750, I *think*...

And should I just get the camera, or are there certain lenses etc that I should buy? What do I need? I'm fine with just getting the basics for now, and working my way up to more lenses, etc.

I just want something with more power. When I was in 9th grade (yeah, I know, ages ago... I've been out of high school for 4 years...), I worked with a DSLR (don't recall the kind) and I remember liking it SO much more than anything I'd ever used. I'm sick of point and shoot cameras, and more than anything, I'm sick of using my phone to take photos. I want something with more.... wow.

PLEASE HELP ME CHOOSE! What do you use? What have you used? What's best? What should I avoid at all costs?

Thanks in advance!

(PS. After I get it, I'll probably be asking how to use it... lol)

[NeverendingJen]

I'm a Canon girl...always have been, I prefer how they fit in my hands. I have the XS and I love it, but I'd say go with the XSi if you can afford it..it has just a few more perks that make a nice difference. You can get it with just the kit lens to start, and then I'd suggest probably a 50 mm lens and maybe a good zoom lens as well as you can afford them and feel the need.

I'd make sure to get a UV filter and a good strap when you get your camera as well. A really comfy strap can make a difference when using it for long periods.

[AmberK]

Im a Canon girl as well and LOVE my Xsi! I have the kit lens and its an ok lense to use if you are just starting out. I have a 50 mm lens and a zoon lens too but if you can't afford them now its not a big deal.

[jannylynn]

I have a Canon Rebel T1i. It's awesome! I'm still only using the kit lense though. I've been very happy with it!!!

[carriesmom]

I must be in the minority because I am a Nikon girl! I have a D3000 and I absolutely love it but my point and shoot was a Nikon as well so I felt really comfortable with that brand. I only have the kit lens but I loooove this camera. I would just hold a few and see how they feel in your hand.

[nikkiARNGwife]

Another Canon girl here...I have the Rebel XTi and I LOVE it... It was my first DSLR and I've had it for 3+ years...it takes a while to get the hang of..but I think that's true of any DSLR...I'm hoping to upgrade to the 50D in the next year or so.

[Milmomma]

Well I have my old Canon Rebel XT I'm getting rid of cause I upgraded to the T2i. I would suggest just getting one that you can afford and a 50 mm lens. If you get the Canon 1.8 its usually less than 100$ for the lens. So, that would make your camera price like 550. I would pick top of the line you can in that price range. Then you would have two lens to start with and work up from there. A decent tripod and bag are always a major plus. And SD card. So be sure to take into account your extras you will need to start out. Some camera's come with kits to start with. A basic bag/sd card/etc. Getting out there and feeling camera's in your hands is really the best way to go.

[Jenn Barrette]

I love my Rebel, and I recommend getting a 50mm lens too and a big SD card Happy shopping!

[Jengerbread88]

I bought one! After reading a lot of reviews, and considering suggestions from a LOT of people, I went with the Nikon D5000.

It's stunning... ISO 3200, 4.5 frames per second, plus it has live viewing on the screen, so I don't have to look through the viewfinder thingy. (I know, such technical terms!)
I also got the UV filter, a strap, a nice bag, and a high speed SD card... I went with the 8, which should take around 1500-ish photos.

I plan to save up for a spare battery (they run around $70), a tripod, and eventually, I want the stabilized telephoto lens and another zoom lens... but right now, I just want the basic kit lens... that way I can kind of get the hang of the camera first.

Thank you, everyone, for your suggestions!!!

[chez]

nice choice for a starter DSLR I am a Nikon girl as well! I love my D90.

[Lauramarie]

Congrats on your new camera. I hope I can get one someday when I do not have to chase my speed racer toddler down the street. If I had a precious high end camera, I would probably have broken it by now.

[Dottie]

Congrats on the new camera. My DH just bought me the same one.

Enjoy!

Originally Posted by HappyLilGrahamCracker

I bought one! After reading a lot of reviews, and considering suggestions from a LOT of people, I went with the Nikon D5000.

It's stunning... ISO 3200, 4.5 frames per second, plus it has live viewing on the screen, so I don't have to look through the viewfinder thingy. (I know, such technical terms!)
I also got the UV filter, a strap, a nice bag, and a high speed SD card... I went with the 8, which should take around 1500-ish photos.

I plan to save up for a spare battery (they run around $70), a tripod, and eventually, I want the stabilized telephoto lens and another zoom lens... but right now, I just want the basic kit lens... that way I can kind of get the hang of the camera first.

Thank you, everyone, for your suggestions!!!

[krystalhartley]

My dslr is Nikon and my P&S is Cannon. Both are solid industry favorites for a reason, and I think you'd be happy with either.