Best digital camera for a beginner?

I want a good camera to take photo and videos with my friends, with. I really like Nikon and Canon but will settle for Fugi Film because of the price. I need something under $500, like a dslr or point and shoot for a beginner. Ideas?

CANON POWER SHOT 720p WITH 30x OPTICAL ZOOM, AND ABOUT $200. This i by far the best buy i have gotten in a long time. It is extremely easy to use, no crazy buttons or functions, my grandma even knows how to use it. Just an amazing camera. Here is a video of my sister using it at a backstreet boys concert.

I really recommend this camera!