Canon EOS Rebel T3i (with 18-55mm IS II lens)

Pros: - Clarity
- Ease of use
- Light weight (I bring it everywhere)
- Sport mode works for kids and pets (so there is no loss in Nikon setting)
- TV mode is SO helpful for long exposure
- Great ISO sensitivity
- ISO up to 6400 (and expandable, but haven't need

Cons: - Certain lenses are too heavy for the camera (once getting into the 300mm range), but I don't need over 250mm anyways, and chances are if you do, you would be looking at a different DSLR.

Summary: For years, I have been a Nikon customer, but I switched from Nikon to Canon for this camera and I am incredibly happy with my decision. It came down to the Canon Rebel t3i or the Nikon D7000. As a student, the price of additional Nikon equipment is over the top, and I've found that the quality is equivalent to Canon. I'm a rebel now.

If you would like to see sample images of the Canon Rebel t3i photos I have taken, many are on my Flickr account: www.flickr.com/picturepandora (the camera is listed on the upper right for each photo, along with settings used). I find it effective when looking for new cameras (or equipment) to search for sample images on Flickr by searching the name of the camera. If you are interested in comparing HD video quality, search for videos. Of course, read the CNET reviews!

The Canon Rebel t3i is lightweight, so I'm able to bring it everywhere and that provides more photographic opportunities. I cannot compare it to the t2i, but I can say that it's my favorite dslr in this price range in the current market. It's my favorite Canon too. Also, because most cameras are made in Japan, what's available now, for every brand, will probably be considered the latest model for longer than usual.

At 18 megapixels, the clarity of the photos is beyond. This may be a problem with some portraits (ha), but that's where the soft focus effect helps. The scene intelligent auto allows me to focus on the shot, rather than fiddling around with settings and missing it. The macro capabilities are amazing. I wasn't into flower photographs before, but I've found myself attracted to taking nature photographs a lot since this purchase.

The flip LCD screen is great for self portraits, a broader range of angles, and protection for the screen. It is easy to take long exposure photographs and I plan to experiment more with that feature. The sports mode works really well. Nikon has a setting for "kids and pets," but the Canon sports mode captures that fast movement, so no loss there.

I purchased the Canon telephoto IS 55-250mm lens in addition to this kit and I definitely recommend purchasing an additional lens if you do not already have Canon lenses. If you are new to the world of DSLR's, then practice with the kit lens first, it's great (especially for portraits).

Hope this review is helpful, and feel free to contact me with any questions about the camera! If you are looking for sample images taken with a specific setting, just send me a message, and I'd be happy to experiment with the camera for you.