[Otter Spotter]

Thank you for everyone's replies to my posting. I must say I have been thinking and thinking and I am definate that I want to go down the DSLR route.

Saying that I completely agree with your comments about the bridge camera's and indeed they do offer tremendous value for money and the 18X zoom from Panasonic is very tempting at such a low price.

However,that said I am keen to develop my camera technique and a couple of you have already mentioned they started on a cheaper DSLR to start with but going for a better quality of zoom lens and upgrading the body later and this is what I think I will do.

I think the 40D is a stunning camera for the money but a litlle out of my league pircie wise and probably skill wise to start with. There was an article recently in a photo magazine about a photographer who used the 20D and a 200 mm lens for all his shots and having a look at the prices of the 20D on Ebay this may well be the way to go, in the hope I can upgrade the body to a 40D or even the new 50D as soon as my money allows me too.

The only thing i am concerned about is the bad reports I am seeing about buying camera's on E-Bay,but I suppose you pays your money you takes your choice to some degree.

I will keep you posted and would value any thoughts on my way of thinking and if you think i am doing the right thing.

Thanks
Take care
Andy