Hi Minthie,.

I think there is not much difference to be found in pictures taken with the Nikon D80 or the Canon Digital Rebel XTi, the Sony Alpha might be a little worse (and it is in several reviews). And it's the first DSLR from Sony and it might not be that perfected as the ones from Canon or Nikon who build DSLRs since a long time ago.

Maybe the noise control of the Canon is a bit better than the one from Nikon, but that's only visible in very high ISO values.

I think you should go into a store and test both (or all three) of them to see which one fit's better to you ergonomically. Since the Nikon is bigger than the Canon it could be better for users with bigger hands. But the Canon is a little more inexpensive compared to the Nikon. There are many many reviews of these two cameras and one says Nikon is better and the other does it vice versa...

I'm a former Canon SLR owner and I shoot television/video for a living. I recently purchased my first digital SLR, the Olympus E-500 8.0 megapixel and I am extremely pleased with the camera, the quality of the pictures it takes, and the price (SRP$799) it came with two digital lenses a 14-45mm and a 40-150mmWhile the auto mode works great for snapshots, this camera offers extensive control of just about every photographic function I could ask for, yet is very easy to use and navigate the menus. I've had it for about a month and I've shot a variety of photos in different settings, natural light, slow shutter, natural light night shots, flash, etc printing to 8x10 or smaller and I'm very pleased with the results so far. My only minor complaint would be the lenses have that infinity focus ring which takes some getting used to. But overall I'd highly recommend this camera for anyone looking for an affordable quality digital SLR kit that takes beautiful photos. If your looking at a Canon Rebel, I'd definately chack out the Olympus E-500 as well. There are plenty of comparrisons online and the only complaint I've heard is the Olympus only has three auto focus points...

Minthie, you are not a beginner. You were a beginner when you began your first class. If you're considering going further then you've already moved up from beginner. IMHO, any DSLR will do the job you want but I'd lean to the Canon or Nikon of the ones you mentioned. Personally, I use a Pentax but I'm not a fanatic. Either of cameras will allow you to learn what you need to learn and do what you need to do.

It serves you well. Enjoy...

Hi,.

I'm Urbing. I plan to buy a digital camera. My friends advise me to get Canon S3 IS. But I'm only a beginner when it comes to using camera. Can anyone give me some advice? Thanks and happy new year...

Hi Urbing, The truth is that different cameras fit different needs, so it's like asking what clothes to wear without knowing where you are going. If you want to learn how to choose one for your needs you should consult a camera buying guide like www.neocamera.com There are just a few pages to read... - Itai..