Best beginners slr camera? - 1

Hi! I'm looking to buy a slr camera beneath the price £650. I've never owned one before or had anything to do with photography before so I need straight up answers without all the fancy words: What is the best beginners camera in my price range?

Many people have recommended the Canon EOS 550D to me, and about the same amount of people have recommended the Nikon D3100. Because people are recommending different cameras, though, I'm confused.

Also, I've no idea what kind of lens to get. I'd mostly be taking photos of landscapes, but some portraits may occur. XD

Added (1). Also, it's likely that this camera will be one I keep for many, many years, as the £650 is what I've saved up over the course of 4 years for a decent camera.

Added (2). I intend to do a lot of reading before buying a camera, I'd just like to chose a camera first. Makes the idea of photography feel more secure.

Can't go wrong with either one. Both will give you excellent results.

The best advice I can give is the Canon Rebel line. Since I only recommend what I own and therefore know - Canon.

Actually if this is your first camera I'd say it's a little much. These cameras are intended for serious photography. If you have the will to learn how to use it properly you'll be happy with it. If not you're going to be disappointed.

These aren't simple to run so I'd do some serious reading before you even consider buying one. These are not your simple pocket toy point and shoot cameras.

Definitely go for the 550D, or even better the 600D. The difference between the two right not is less than $100. As far as lenses, get the 18-55mm lens that comes with the camera. You'll be able to shoot 95% of what you need with that lens, from wide-angle landscapes to portraits. One huge difference about SLRs is that you can't think about having one lens that does everything… Think about what pictures you want to take, and buy the lenses accordingly. It may be a zoom or telephoto lens, or a macro lens. Maybe for outdoors pictures, or for low-light picture at home. In any case, the 18-55mm lens is a good one to start with.

Well it's obvious people recommend both, it's because both are good, not because one group of people would be stupid to use that brand. And yes, reading a lot is the best way to start with DSLR photography.

Canon EOS T2i is the best choice for the money. Quality is the same on all DSLRs.

Here's a DSLR Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/

Nikon J1 is a great little camera, but you do need to read parts of the manual. If you are someone who likes to capture the moment, this camera is very good in bright light. The colors (white balance) is very good, and in bright light the camera will focus more quickly than most cameras out there. This is great camera for someone (example, my wife) who likes to just shoot and not worry too much about all the photographic technical mumbo jumbo.