Since Pentax has now been mentioned a few times, suggest considering the K-r (newer) over the K-x (less features).
K-r now has focus points that appear in viewfinder,not so on K-x. May be a problem for some. Also K-x uses only AA batteries. Just saying .........
If 85mm is the lens you are considering, and you are okay with manual focus only, there is a very reasonable option out there sold under several names. It is made in Korea and sold under the Rokinon, Samyang, Vivitar, and Bower, as examples. I just had one shipped to me and will be using it Saturday on a photo walk with volunteer models outside in midday light and maybe some inside as well. It should prove a good test for this f/1.4 lens.
It looks and feels pretty solid. Could not find locally. I purchased from Amazon. Afterwards, I found it cheaper (always, it seems), but prices were from about $260 - $320. Mine was $270.It is available in Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony mounts. Maybe more, not sure.
If I liked Nikon, would be the 3100 or 5100 with 18-105 lens
If Canon - probably one of the Rebel series - T3i, probably the 28-135 lens.
If size, features, weight were important, would choose the Pentax K-r with the upgraded 18-55 kit lens, or Sigma 17-70.
Whatever the choice, it should feel comfortable in your hands.
Suggest doing hands-on at a local photo store. The advice you get from the pros can vastly outweigh any savings from on-line discounters.
If build is important to you, the 1.4 is superior and it is reflected in the price. Played with one and decided the image quality of the 1.4 vs my 1.8 (ver.ll) did not justify the price difference. The difference in the depth of field was a non-issue for me.
Both lenses are capable of good images.
If I was packin' the 3100, I would probably opt for the 18-105
Hi all. First post to site. Still have an original dRebel (300D)as a gift from loving wife for a hard earned $1K back in the day. Still marvel at how much more they have packed in to newer models past couple of years. Hard to say bad things about a piece of equipment that has done so well for so long.