Time for a new camera

[highball]

I have been thinking about getting a Canon Rebel XSI. My past cameras have all been point and shoot, I know nothing about cameras.
I am looking to spend up to $650, any thoughts on this camera.
Thanks

 

[AdrianR]

If you know nothing, as you claim, then ask yourself if you are prepared to learn the control a DSLR gives you over and above a basic point-and-shoot.

It's possible to pick up a Nikon D40 with lens for less than US$400 of da Bay - often with warranty. These are great introductory cameras where Nikon refused to follow the fashion of 'more pixels means better quality' and concentrated on the firmware to get the best out of the sensor they used.

The added bonus is that one may also use any Nikon lens made since 1959 or any lens with the Nikon F mount - this gives the widest possible range of glass one may use.

 

[Pricklycactus]

I have been thinking about getting a Canon Rebel XSI. My past cameras have all been point and shoot, I know nothing about cameras.
I am looking to spend up to $650, any thoughts on this camera.
Thanks

www.dpireview.com have some useful info. I am a loyal Canon user but I haven't switched to digital yet although I cashed in some Airmiles and got a Pentex Optio E80 for those party moments.

I looked at some of the Canons and the bodies are kind of plasticky and cheap looking but then I am comparing it to the A-1 bodies. I also have small hands but I found the bodies toylike-perhaps they are made for Japanese hands. I dunno but I was not impressed. I don't really like Nikon and I want to be able to use my Canon lenses so I am still waiting for THE Canon camera to come along.

I liked the looks of the retro looking Olympus Pen, that is the digital camera I am waiting to be invented,-retro dials with digital format.