Best "Cheap" DSLR Starter camera

[Dark_Chaos]

i know i know... we all argue about this topic all the time... but i am so indecisive about what to get as my first camera.. i am constantly doing checks on the specs on camera and i just cannot make a decision.

Nikon or Canon? Olympus or Sony? I am overwelmed by the choice...

I want quality, but not a far-fetched price range that i could never reach

The main camera make i'm looking at is Nikon or Canon (I do like canon a little more), but i have no clue what to start with. I want to do self-portraits; portraits; and fashion photography.

What would you suggest?

[RichardTaylor]

What feels best in your hands and what looks best to you through the camera viewfinder.

Keep in mind you may be buying into a system.

[LenDog]

Watch out for the stabilization, in camera (i.e, Sony) or in lens (Nikon and Canon). Assuming you may buy a lens or 2 beyond the kit lens with your first camera, on a future body upgrade you may have to buy new lenses as well.
I have a Sony now, but if I could start over again I'd go Nikon up front.

[gturner]

Both are good, go to the shop and play with them. You will find one fits your hand better than the other.
Also look at menu systems and controls. I prefer Canon, but that will not help you