A good digital SLR for someone a bit above amateur /entry-level?
I'm not completely new to the photo scene. I have some experience with others digital SLR's as well as experience with traditional film SLR's. I've been into photography for abour six years, and have done tons of research and shooting. For level of knowledge I would see myself a bit above an amateur looking to take "nice shots". However I'm by no means whatsoever a professional. I'm looking for something with (most importantly) 'good' image quality overall, as well as lots of manual controls, good in low light, impressive macro capability etc.etc. I realize most of the image quality & these features are in the lens itself… Do you recommend Nikon or Canon? Or perhaps another brand… I'd like to know of a specific model please. I'm doing my research, but opinions are always nice. Thank you!
Added (1). Forlorn Hope: Yeup! Of course!
Canon rebel XS or XSi
If you have other models, then get the same make and use the lenses you have to hand… Saves money…
and if you knew about cameras, you'd know that the lens is more important than the body!
Both XS and XSi and entry level.
I suggest you move to a better camera model such as Canon 40/D50D/60D or Nikon D5000/D90 or if you have the money Sony a850(full frame) or Nikon D700(full frame).
Since you have the knowledge, a good camera would expand your horizon further.
Lens is everything, If I were you I would get the cheapest/feature rich body ( may be Canon T1i) and spend the rest on least two lenses, one macro and one standard zoom like 18-135mm. And if you want to dig deeper, a tripod can do wonders.
I personally prefer Canon, because their cameras feels easier to use and better in my hands and their lens range is also nice. You need to hold one and find our how it feels in your hand.
Nikon D7000
Canon 60D
Have a look at these two, they would last you a long time without any thought of 'upgradation'.
They come with the kit lens, use it and think about the other lens as you go along.
I don't really know how much you want to spend, but you've said you want something better than the entry level cameras (which range from about $600 - $1000). There are a bunch of really good cameras from around $1000 - $1400… Honestly, I think if you're paying that sort of money you're going to be reasonably happy whatever you get.
These are cameras I'm just rattling off the top of my head with approximate prices with a standard kit lens.
Pentax K7 (about $1200)
Nikon D7000 (about $1200)
Nikon D90 (about $900)
Canon EOS 60D (about $1200)
Sony Alpha SLT A55 (about $1000)
If those are too expensive, look at the Nikon D3100 or the Pentax K-r.
Nikon d3100 or d90