Thank you Mike, your advice really makes sense. Sometimes I can overthink and shop something to death when what I really need to do is just get started and not let he fear of a mistake take over. I've always been interested in learning more about photography and I'm not getting any younger so might as well get going! Was in Albuquerque this April for the first time, beautiful place! Just wish I had something other than my phone to take pictures!

Wow! Thank you so much for the input. Didn't expect to get so much great info so fast. Makes me even more excited to learn now that I have a place like this to connect with other photography enthusiasts! I've really been trying to educate myself lately so that I can make the right decision.

Looking at canon and Nikon for a good DSLR for beginner under $500. Any suggestions?