Do i go for a digital slr?

knightstyle

Go here for top 10 compact cameras http://www.t3.com/feature/top-10-compact-cameras
Go here for top 10 DSLRs http://www.t3.com/feature/top-10-d-slrs

patman99

I bought a Sony A200 as it was at the time, far superior to anything from Canon or Nikon. However, if I were buying today, it would be a Nikon.

As you will find out, once you purchase a given DSLR, you are then stuck with lenses for that camera, so if you ever change then you will either have to buy another body to suite your lenses, or sell the lot and start again.

Some cameras can use older A/F lenses from 35mm film cameras (nikon and Sony (Minolta AF mount)), others such as Canon have limited functionality with older lenses (Canon can use older EOS lenses, but only on manual focus).

If you are looking for a good bridge camera, then Fuji's HS10. It has all the functionality of a DSLR, and a lens range of 24-720mm.

If you decide on a DSLR, then have a good look round ebay for second hand lenses, spare batteries and other accessories. NEVER pay full price for new lenses when you can get good-as-new second-hand. Just make sure to buy and fit U/V filters, as these have no effect on the picture, but protect your valuable lens from damage.