Canon Rebel XS (with 18-55mm lens, Black)

Pros: The Camera has intuitive controls with dedicated buttons for almost any option. This means less time trying to navigate thru menus, more time taking pictures. Vibrant screen

Cons: MegaPixel count close to on market point-and-shoots, flash can be sluggish to recharge if taking a series of quick shots

Summary: The Rebel EOS XS delivers. I've worked with this camera for eight months now and I've held off reviewing because I've wanted to provide my accurate opinion. this camera performs rock solid in any situation, and it's pictures look absolutely beautiful. It's a fantastic camera for hobbyists and amateurs alike. The XS delivers dedicated buttons for almost any feature which is rare in the dSLR realm. Most cameras will have you struggling thru menus within menus to find options. The menu system it does have is simple to navigate and honestly makes sense, which is a nice departure from typical menu systems that have options spread out between multiple in-menus.

Is this camera the end-all, be-all of digital photography? Of course not, but this camera does exactly what it's supposed to do and it does it amazing. I've taken photos with this camera that rival my sister's wedding pictures which were taken on a Nikon D300. It's a fantastic learning camera that will assist you in every way.

As you get more comfortable with the camera you can start exploring it's different modes. Go from fully automatic to completely manual in just a couple turns of the dial on top. I found the viewfinder to be nice and large and that I could hold up the camera comfortably; it's much lighter than a traditional SLR and I must say that it does help when trying to hold zoom lenses by hand.

I don't use the included software (I use Aperture 2) so I can't comment on that, but I can say if its as user friendly as the camera then it should be great too.

It's true you can get more expensive dSLRs out there that will have higher MP counts and ISO levels (although I don't understand the appeal of having astronomically large iso levels - unless you love grainy shots) but IMHO I believe unless you are a professional and looking for the absolute top-of-the-line, you're wasting your money if you decided to go with a different camera just because it's more expensive. When I was in the market I was considering the Nikon D60, but after looking at and reading some reviews I decided to go with the Rebel and I'm glad I did. I couldn't get be happier.

This is a not an investment you will regret in any manner; if you are in the market and looking for a great dSLR, stop reading reviews - go out and get this camera