[Durant]

Originally Posted by tiffc

Why don't you go to a shop that sells cameras? Preferably one that specalizes in technology (you know like Best Buy or if Walmart sells cameras then there) then ask an employee there for advice. They would be your best bet for helping you narrow down your choices. I would take a lot of the people who posted here's advice though.

No offense tiff, but I'd really recommend against that route. The average Best Buy or Walmart employee isn't going to know any more about cameras than what it says on the sheet sitting in front of the camera. If you'd like a professional opinion go to a store that specializes in cameras and photography equipment only. As far as online research goes http://www.dpreview.com/ is an excellent site for reviews on everything from professional DSLR's to the smallest pocket cameras. Other sites such as cnet or bpphoto are great resources also.

Depending on what you are looking for an entry level DSLR will only cost around $500 with a kit lens. The nice thing about this route is that its very upgradeable and customizable to do whatever you are interested in. Also the quality can't be beat and you get full manual control over the camera for your artistic choices.

A mid range camera like the Canon Powershot S5 or Nikon Coolpix L110 will still give you full manual controls but you will be more limited in options and accessories. There are no interchangeable lenses or external flashes.

On the low end you have your general pocket cameras. These are very limiting and more suited to snapshots. The nice thing is they are fairly cheap and will still take decent quality pictures but you don't have any options beyond a couple preset modes and pushing the button.