Mmm Cameras

So, I've toying with the idea of getting a DSLR or a high end point and shoot. After doing some research, I think it may be worth the extra couple hundred to go with one of the affordable DSLRs out there. The top three I had found for affordability and the added bonus of a vari-angle LCD are the Panasonic Lumix G3, Cannon T3i/600D and the Nikon D5100. For my own sake, and perhaps anybody else who is curious, I am putting some notes about them here;

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G3 - Base Price: $624.88

16 MP Micro Four-Thirds Interchangeable Lens Camera with 3-Inch Free-Angle Touch-Screen LCD and 14-42mm Lumix G VARIO f/3.5-5.6 Lens
3.0-inch free-angle LCD with touch control gives users the ability to choose your focal point and focus strength as well as several other functions by just touching the screen. Reviews say it's a great beginner DSLR camera and also great for low light photos.
Doesn't seem to be very many lenses with good reviews for this camera and they are high priced.
Smallest body of it's size, light weight too, which could prove convenient for all those odd angles.

 

Canon EOS Rebel T3i  - Base Price $799.00

18 MP CMOS APS-C Sensor DIGIC 4 Image Processor Full-HD Movie Mode, 3.0-Inch Clear View Vari-Angle LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens

From what I can tell this model of camera is not very cross compatible with other cannon lenses and the ones available are a bit pricey.

Largest of the three options in body and weight.

Nikon D5100 - Base Price: $699.00

16.2MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens, 3-inch Vari-Angle LCD

This camera has some fun in camera editing tools and special effect modes that look very intriguing. rom what I can tell this camera is also cross compatible with other/older lenses, though some functions may not work with them. It also seems that the lenses are more affordable as well.

When I first started this search I was leaning towards a Lumix Fz150 or Cannon G12 which are high end point and shoots, though the FZ150 was also a super zoom. I've only ever owned point and shoots that cost $125 or less and have no knowledge of the more detailed intricacies of photography, so this is a big learning process for me.

The local Best Buy has the T3i and the D5100 and I plan on going in and playing with them some more, hoping I can get them to let me take it off of the security thing to really get a feel for them. There are no real photography/camera stores in the area, so it's the best I can do for now.

If anybody that reads this has input on these cameras, or other cameras or about DSLR photography in general I'd love to hear it! <3