Wow! Great shots as usual, Linda. And thanks so much for the tips on taking shots of the moon. I've learned a lot and I think I'm getting there. Still having a little trouble with perfect focus, but that could just be my eyes. Lol

Absolutely beautiful! It makes me want to ditch work and head for the hills. :)

WOW!! How in the world do you get shots like that?? I just bought my first dslr (Nikon 3200) and I got completely frustrated a couple of nights ago trying to get a good shot of the moon rising. Any tips on the settings?

I did it! I bought the Nikon 3200! Now if I could just learn how to use it! Lol I would like to get an 18 to 150mm lens to add to my kit. It came with the 55mm and the 200mm, but I would really like a general lens that I could keep on most of the time. Where's the best place to look and would y'all recommend used lenses?

After months of researching and asking questions, I think I am about to go with the Nikon D3200 two lens bundle. I decided to back off of the price a little since this will be my first DSLR. I was impressed with the Nikon guide on the screen to learn-as-you-go, since I learn more easily that way. I juggled around the weather-proofing and image stabilization of the Pentax, but so many different reviews stated that the pictures were less than expected. For the money, I think the D3200 is going to be my best bet. Any final words of advice?

DeeAndre, I would love to give it a try if you didn't mind sending it to me. I can pay shipping on my end, or I can send it to you via paypal.

Well, I went to the photography store. Met with the owners and spoke to a very nice sales lady. They carry several different brands and didn't recommend either the Nikon 3200 or the 5200. When I explained what I want to shoot (my boys and landscapes), she recommended the Pentax KX50. It has weatherproofing, sturdy, 5 shots per second, does very well in low light, stabilization in the body and the lenses and several buttons so you don't have to dig through a menu to make simple changes. The kit is $800. Includes the camera body and two lenses. Has anyone ever used one and could I get your opinions?

I've found a photography shop about an hour away! I'm hoping to be able to go this weekend and get my hands on some cameras. Yall wish me luck!

I most certainly will lukan. :)

I really appreciate your comments, amehta and sirlensalot. That helps me a lot.

Thank you, Cholly. I will do just that.

Thanks. You have made me laugh out loud for the first time today. :) I live in a small, rural town, so it will be a bit of a drive for me but I will definitely take that advice. Thanks again.

The clouds were the first thing I noticed. Beautiful shot. Thanks for sharing!

I can't thank each of you enough for taking the time to respond to my inquiry. I have one more question that I would really appreciate your input on... I have 3 boys, 13, 9 and 7. They play sports and are just never still in general. Will the fact that neither camera has image stabilization make me regret not getting an advanced point and shoot? Trees and landscapes stand still enough, but the boys are a different story.

I am buying my first SLR camera. I have been researching for months and have come down to two cameras. I would love some input before I make my purchase. Nikon D3200 or Nikon D5200? Help?