nikon D50

[nightshade]

The D50 is easy to use, the more features the longer it takes to learn(E500)
Handle them all if it does not feel right it will always niggle no matter what the features.do not forget what you want it for;Birds need long lenses, Insects a good close up facility,you may not get this in a kit it may pay to buy a camera body and the lenses YOU want.
Ask if they will change it for another model without too much fuss if you find it does not suit
then go out and enjoy yourslf!

[paulthomas]

Originally Posted by nightshade

The D50 is easy to use, the more features the longer it takes to learn(E500)

Tne E-500 is just as easy to use as the D50, as is the 350XT. They're all good, easy-to-use cameras, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Any of them can be used in full Auto "point and pray" mode. All of them have various "scene" modes which are probably best avoided for nature photography (use P, A or S as appropriate - or M if you're feeling brave enough ). A knowledge of the fundamentals of photography is essential to get the best out of any DSLR.

[Barbara]

Thankyou nightshade and paulthomas for your time and advice. I have settled for the Canon 350D and I am in the process of trying to figure out it's gonna be a long night. thanks again