As a hobby photographer?
Hi. I want to start photography as a hobby, but i'm young, so I don't want to blow all my money on on single lens. My question is: Should I go with Nikon or Canon and pay the premium for lenses? Or should I go with Pentax or Sony to save money?
For now you should just get an 18-55. There's absolutely no need to spend big bucks on gear when you're just starting out. Go to a local camera shop and try out the Rebel T3, Nikon D3100 and the Sony & Pentax entry-level models.
Photography isn't cheap, even an entry-level DSLR with 18-55mm is only a start, you will soon discover the need for another lens, flashgun, tripod etc.
As to the camera itself, there isn't really much difference at entry-level, just find a dealer who'll let you handle a couple of candidates within your budget and pick the one you like.
Do all your research on the main three dSLR brands, Canon, Nikon and Sony. What makes you think you are going to save money with Sony or Pentax? Some of the most expensive lenses are Sony! Sorry, but there's no real savings if you go with Sony or Pentax. If you go with Sony, Canon or Nikon branded lenses, especially the higher end, really good lenses, they are going to be expensive.
Of course you can get a third party lens from Tamron or Sigma to save some money. Some of their lenses are really good for the money.
Why don't you go for the Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens. It will be perfect for a beginner like you and the brand is verey relaible too:
14.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor; 3-inch monitor with One-Touch Live View shooting and movie capture
Includes 3x 18-55mm Zoom-NIKKOR VR Image Stabilization lens
Full 1080p HD Cinematic Video with full-time autofocus and sound
Easy-To-Use Nikon Guide Mode with intuitive controls and on-board assistance
Capture images to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
http://www.amazon.com/...003ZYF3LO/
Read this review for more information:
http://www.amazon.com/...UMEWSVG00/
A list of all the best DSRLs in the market now:
http://www.amazon.com/...ive=390957
Hope i helped.