Bugfan Loc: Toronto, Canada

The best SLR for you is one that fits comfortably in the hand, that offers the features and quality that you feel you need, And that is a part of a system that can reliably grow with you into the future. We do not have your hands so we can't tell you what fits best in the hand. We don't know your dreams so we can't recommend a system, and while we do know you want small and quality, there are far too many that qualify in that category depending on what "quality" means.

Personally I'm a Nikon fan, I have several Nikon SLRs and I swear by them. But there are as many Canon fans who say the same thing about their cameras.

The only advice that we can reasonably give is that Nikon and Canon can fulfil your dreams, both carry the most esoteric and flexible line of gadgets, lenses and bodies that you can't go wrong regardless of how outrageous your dreams might be.

If you have more modest needs, try Pentax, Sony, Olympus, Fuji and many other really worthy offerings. They're usually smaller and they take outstanding images too.

And finally, be prepared to compromise. Many features means a large camera body to provide the space to house them. If you're demanding professional quality and functionality be prepared to buy a wheelbarrow to carry the gear around. If you want something for your pocket instead, be prepared to have a camera that is less functional and producing a lower level of image quality.

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

Canon and Nikon users tend to think that their brands are the best.

Don't be swayed by people who look down their noses at other brands.

Do the research based on what you want to do as a photographer and artist and don't worry about what brand people tell you is the best. Go to that camera store and look at Sony, Pentax, Sigma, Canon and Nikon if you plan to buy a DSLR. Throw in Fuji and Olympus if a mirrorless camera will do the job.

In any case, don't be persuaded by snobbery; find what works best for you and go with it.

Lightwips Loc: Almonte, Ontario

I'll start a fight. Why not use film?

sueyeisert Loc: New Jersey

If you want something small look at mirrorless. I love my Nikon D300, but the mirrorless is so much easier to carry.I just ordered a Fugi X-E2. There are many cameras to look at. What do you want to spend and what will you shoot? I would not buy mirrorless for sports photography.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

The real challenge would be to find a name-brand low quality DSLR. They come in a variety of sizes, and I can't think of any that do not have a viewfinder. Canon is currently offering the world's smallest DSLR.

http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/about_canon/newsroom/press_releases?pageKeyCode=pressreldetail&docId=0901e02480844488

Hando Rei Loc: Long Island New York

One needs more information about what your shooting interests are ! Hard to recommend anything with little or no information . Best go to a camera store or photo club and discuss your needs . Good luck !

cthahn

These are requirements.

neco Loc: Western Colorado Mountains

Pappy:

I have been thinking of getting a 60D but wondered if you wish you had a 70D? Is there that much difference?

bobmcculloch Loc: NYC, NY

Currently Canon T5i or even smaller SL1

anotherview Loc: California

Ditto. I own this fine camera. Paired with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens, this camera produces high-quality images.

Note that my use of the 6D in the field shows it generates minimal image noise up to ISO 800. The slightly reduced physical dimensions of the 6D also make it easier to handle and carry around all day while doing my landscape photography.

I highly recommend the 6D.

Near Canyonlands NP, Late Afternoon

bersharbp Loc: Texas

I think you need to tell us more about you, your photography needs and your budget. As knee jerk response, I would agree with MT Shooter, the D3200 is light weight, relatively inexpensive and flexible. The D 5200 would be a good 'next step up', and the D7100, up from there. I know Canon has the equivalent models. We need to know more about you

ole sarg Loc: south florida

DSLR = Digital Single Lens Reflex Camera.

Now he wants small. It seems to me that two or three bridge cameras fill the bill as well as the new canon rebel SL1.

A DSLR does not necessarily have to have an interchangeable lens!

hb3 Loc: Texas

As do all the mirrorless m4/3rds options, mainly from Olympus and Panasonic...

Shutter Bugger

I'd like to run the Nikon Df up the flagpole as the op
wants quality and the Df is Full frame in a small package.

Not that looking cool adds to the finished photo, but it sure doesnt hurt. and the Df looks as cool as absolute zero.

'tog' unknown.

sbesaw Loc: Boston

Jerry nailed it. OP wanted DSLR-viewfinder-small. Canon SL1 is world's smallest DSLR. That is where OP should start evaluation