A good real camera for a beginner of photography?

I've been doing photography for almost a year and I feel like it's time to get a better bigger camera.
I use a Sony Cybershot for pictures which obviously isn't the greatest but it was just a beginning.
I want a real photography camera.
Price range:
$600-$700
I'd either like a Nikon or Canon
Far zooming, video, if possible HD

I found this link that seems extremely helpful and exactly on the mark - http://www.digital-slr-guide.com/best-beginner-digital-slr.html

I would say the best thing for you is to buy a DSLR camera (no longer a compact, like the one you are using at the moment). You don't need a very expensive one because it is better to get a simpler camera and learn how to use all the functions properly. I would definitely agree with you regarding choosing a Nikon or Canon, they are very good in all aspects. About the zooming, well I think any camera you buy will have a reasonable zooming capability, but to take pictures of objects very far away, you would need a telescopic lens (they come in all sizes).

Anyway, take your time, have a good look around, I'm sure you'll find a good camera. Enjoy!

The Canon Rebel SLR is best for beginners

Well, to tell you the truth… If you want a zoom camera it won't cost that much money, like 200-500 dollars. BUT, if you want a camera that can change lenses, those cost from 500 to thousands of dollars. But I would like to recommend the Canon Rebel t2i. It's an amazing camera, and if you have a little extra money, you should totally go for it! ( or even more money go for the t3i) :) Hope this helped!

Canon 600D is a really great camera. I think you should get a camera that you will use for a long time. I don't think you should buy one around 600-700 dollars, then just toss it out when you've lost interest. Get an expensive one, then use it for a really long time.
canon 600D. HD filming, excellent results, and the screen, you can adjust it. It's really great!

My recommendation would be the Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera. I have been using this camera after an upgrade for my Cybershot too and I have not been disappointed with it, the build is very good and the level of features are more than sufficient but not to overwhelming allowing you to get the most from the pictures it takes.