Inexpensive DSLR?

[tumblrbailey]

I'm going to Disney (for the eighth time) for my sixteenth birthday next year. I'm looking to buy a fairly good quality DSLR, for not too much $$$, since I'm most likely paying myself. I'll probably have a day or so in the parks alone so I want to have lots of nice non-touristy pictures.
Any ideas for a camera?

 

[saturndb]

what is your definition of "not much money"

 

[tumblrbailey]

Trying to keep it 600 or so.

 

[photo_chick]

If price is the bottom line you will get the most for your money with a Pentax.

But keep in mind the camera isn't what makes the shot, the photographer is.

 

[Anewman]

I would wait till next year... Seriously, prices drop and the camera will get better.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

If you have a few weeks, there is a big photo show coming up (Photokina) and most of the manufacturers are introducing new models. The current models usually drop in price after the announcements. For example, one of the better entry level DSLR's is the Pentax Kx and this can be had at B & H for $629 with the 18-55 and 55-300mm lenses right now. Both of these 'kit' lenses have very good reviews, especially the 55-300mm. IMHO Pentax offers the best value for the money. All the cameras will serve you well whichever you choose. The thing to remember is the ergonomics of the camera. Some just fit your hand better than others. So attempt to handle the different models to determine which fits your hands best.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

In that price range I'd recommend looking at the Pentax K-x. The Sony A500 also is a nice camera that is in the range.

As others have mentioned the big camera show will be happening soon and new models are already being announced. Prices will likely drop on some of these models (they already have on the Sony) and there may be newer models that will work for you as well.

 

[disneyboy2003]

In addition to the above suggestions, you can also try looking into used dSLRs, too. I'm sure you can find some great used dSLRs for your price range.

 

[MarkBarbieri]

I was going to offer some advice about other things you might want to consider, but I decided to make it a separate thread.

 

[tumblrbailey]

I just looked at the Pentax K-x, and I think it seems the best for me right now. I'll wait a while and see about the new models though. Thanks for all your advice!