what should i buy

[Technical Tim]

Gotta get a new camera - what to spend around £300-400, upgrading from Fuji S6500 to my first proper DSLR - any thoughts?

[dcclark]

The Nikon D40 or D5000 are pretty spiffy. I highly recommend them.

Another option: go to your local electronics or camera store, ask for cameras in that price range, and then play around with them. See which ones feel good to you (comfortable grip, good weight, easy to reach controls). The one that feels best is likely to be best, because you'll actually want to use it!

[fletch]

The most important thing is how it feels in your hand. For example the smaller Canon DSLRs are notouriously unconfortable if you have large hands and that is certainly what I found when I held one.

[A@EPOCH]

Canon XSI or 450D is one of the better consumer options for a first DSLR, however I would recommend making the jump to any of the brands low to middle range options (Canon XSI, XT, XTI, Nikon D40 through D90) as you will find a whole other level of options and features not found in most high end p&s cams even though they will consume a little more money than the former.

[coltter]

Match your budget,

1. Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)

2. Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Black)

3. Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP Digital SLR Camera (Black Body Only)