What Longshadow said. (Hi, Sherry, welcome! I'm brand new to this, too. Just got my first dslr yesterday.) Go to stores and handle cameras, find out what 'feels good.' (Best Buy got tired of seeing me!) The more I handled the various cameras, the more I realized what felt intuitive in My hands. Good luck in your search, and let us know what you decide!

Hi Sherry, welcome! I'm a newbie, too -- my first DSLR just arrived yesterday, a Canon T3i. I completely agree with Longshadow -- go to stores and handle camera, see what feels "right" in your hands. I found some cameras just felt awkward, while others were . . . well, just comfortable.

Thank you JoAnne! Lol, yes, I am already addicted to this forum! My camera arrives on Monday, and I'm already planning some photo outings with a friend.

Thanks, Treepusher -- I picked up on the fun RIGHT away!

Hey, everyone! I've been following this forum for about a week now. I am such a 'newbie,' I squeak. So I hope you'll bear with me if and when (more likely when) I ask stupid questions. I'm graduating from point and shoot and have just ordered my first DSLR -- a Canon Rebel T3i, with the basic starter lens, 18-55mm EF-S. I figure there's no point in spending big bucks on more lenses till I know a what I'm doing and what I want. I also ordered the T3i for Dummies book -- just call me eager to learn!

I love the bench in the first picture . . . facing the lake and mountains. It beckons me to enter into the picture, to sit, to relax, to enjoy that beautiful spot; and when I walk away, to take it with me in my heart.