question

[jkapl001]

I am ready upgrade from the point and shoot world and get a good camera. Pretty much an idiot when it comes to cameras but trying to learn something. I want something with a manual focus that isnt to complicated to use. Also want something that will take shots fairly quick, no long shutter lag. I have heard good stuff about the Canon and the Nikon. Would like to be as economical as possible but want to upgrade to something really nice. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks

[Sea++]

I have a Canon Rebel XSI (EOS 450D) and am really happy with it. Its a good camera to step out of the point and shoot world and enter the land of DSLR. If you get it with the lens kit it will come with a 18-55mm which is a decent started lens that you can branch out from.

As far as taking shots quickly w/ no lag that's pretty much determined by your lighting and lenses. Good lighting = shutter doesnt need to stay open long to collect enough light for proper exposure. Poor lighting = flashes or tripod and slower shutter speed for a longer exposure or playing with ISO settings (the camera will do this for you of course if you leave it in point and shoot mode, defeating the purpose of owning a DSLR anyways).

Steve's Digicams - Main Menu is a good site that I used during my purchasing research. I originally was going to get a Nikon D40, but changed my mind because my sister has a Canon and I want to be able to use her lenses if I need one for a specific purpose.