I finally will be getting my DSLR for Christmas and I'm between two cameras. I don't know if any of you have experience with either of these, but any suggestions are appreciated. I'm not a pro, but consider myself a bit above an amateur, and am looking for a camera that can grow with me. So, it's between the Nikon D5000 and the Canon EOS Rebel T1i. I haven't been too involved in this group because I wanted to have more than my point and shoot before I started going to any of the activities (although I've taken some great pics with it and it'll still be what I carry with me all the time), but hope to now become more active and learn from all the talented photographers I've seen here. Thanks for your help!

Jean

Not familiar with the Nikons as I only shoot Canon. The rebel line is great for any beginner. It is not really a camera to grow with you. It is more of a camera to get to see if you want to get into the DSLR lineup and then if you decide to stick around you get rid of the rebel and move up to one of the Canons that have better shutter life. The 50D would be a great camera to start with that you wouldn't mind keeping as a back up in a few years when you get something else. If you don't mind spending just a little bit more then go with the 7D. Both the 50D and the 7D are great bodies that you will be pleased with for years to come.

Jean,
I think that when you first start out you basically commit yourself to one camera line or another. Canon and Nikon? Their are differences, but one or the other will not dictate what kind of photographer you are, or the quality of the photos you take. I suggest you try out both cameras to see the differences. I know that Joe, from B&C cameras on Sahara will let you try these cameras out, and if you come in on Saturdays I am their to help you as well. It is the feel of the camera that makes the biggest difference to me.

Here is a link that might help explain the differences

Jean- I have used Canon EOS since 2002 and on my 2nd model now xsi for more than a year. I am now evaluating the new 7D, and would even consider going back to Nikon...the question is which model. The EOS line price drops by about a 100 every year. And the next question is what lenses to buy.
As a starter the canon xti would be a good buy, be careful when you see the cheaper models at Cotsco those are the older models.
Tukaussey Where is B&C?how would their prices compare to B&H ?( I used to be a NYker and still buy my stuff there)

here is a Canon xsi photo:


Cheers
Tony

Tony

Nice Photo, what lens did you use. I do a lot of macro with a 90mm.

B&C is on Sahara between Arvile and Decatur, across from TGIF, in the same shopping center as The Egg and I restaurant. B&C Camera

As far as price comparisons to B&H, I think that the local service you get from a local camera store far exceeds and price savings, which is minimal from what I can see.

Bill (TuKaussey)

OK, will pass by B&C I need some lens hood..I used the 18- 55 lens that came with the camera.

Wow, thank you all for your great suggestions. My budget is only $900 (ONLY???), since my husband sold back some leave time to get this for me. This limits my choices, I know. I was wondering if it was really a bad idea to get my first camera at Costco. Here's why-they have both these cameras, are selling them for under what I can afford, and they both come with the basic lens and a zoom lens, as well as other additional stuff like a memory card and case. From all the reading I've done, and based on the posts here as well, it seems the Canon vs Nikon debate is really a matter of personal preference. Thank you for the suggestion to try both out. I will definitely see if I can get down to the shop on Saturday. I'm just excited to finally have a camera that will allow me to take some of the pictures I've only dreamed about to this point. Thanks again for all your help and I look forward to meeting some of you at upcoming events!

I have shot with Canon SLR's (for 20 years) & since 2001 Canon DSLR's. I have several Canon DSLR's (sorry no Rebels) that I would be happy to let you "test out". If this is of interest contact me directly. I am a Photography Instructor and I know Canon & Nikon systems.

Michael Caristo Photography
http://www.MichaelCar...

check this site Canon T1i for $709 with zoom lens

http://www.bhphotovid...

Canon EOS Rebel T1i Digital SLR Camera Kit w/EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

* 15.1Mp CMOS Sensor
* HD 1080p, 720p, and VGA Video Capture
* 3" Clear View LCD with Live View
* DIGIC 4 Image Processor
* ISO Expandable to 12,800
* EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
* Compatible w/ 60-plus EF & EF-S Optics

*

Michael-thanks for the most generous offer. I have a friend who owns a Rebel, and I'm going to check it out. Lucky for me, I also have a friend who has a Nikon (a D90 [which I'd get if I had the money]vs the D5000, but at least a Nikon) What classes do you teach? I'd be interested in taking classes at some point.

Tony-thanks for the tip on the Canon for sale. The price is great, but Costco has the camera with an additional lens for about $150 more.....if I decide to go with the Canon, I'll definitely look at the cost of the additional lens and see if this might still be a better deal.

The research continues! My husband should have the check on Friday, so we'll be getting something before Christmas so I can use it over the holidays! Thanks again for the feedback...what a great group of people!