Is this dslr camera good for photography class?

I'm currently a freshman in highschool, and I'm taking a photography class (Photography 1.) I'm looking for a good dslr camera with HD video. I'm kind of on a budget, so I don't want to spend over $500. I'm not sure if these DSLR cameras are okay… So could you help me out!

Nikon d3100: It is kind of pricey, but do you think its worth it?
http://m.bestbuy.com/...v=prodView

Canon SX30 IS: This camera seems more digital than slr? Do you think this would be appropriate for class, because it doesn't require you to buy lens for it.

Thank you so much for your help!

By the way, do you think a DSLR camera with the separate lens is sutible for my photography class?

The D3100 is a dSLR that has a video feature

The Canon SX30 IS is a point and shoot camera (smaller sensors mean less image quality) and can't use interchangeable lenses.

Photo classes generally require the student to use a fully adjustable camera which the Canon is NOT and he Nikon IS

First off you will most likely have to buy used to stick to your budget. Also saying the Canon SX30IS is more digital than slr is silly it is a digital camera as is the nikon d3100 that's what the "d" in "dslr" stands for. "dslr" stands for DIGITAL single lens reflex if you didn't already know. Now if you are looking for a dslr the SX30 isn't so seeing as its a point and shoot. The d3100 is a dslr but it is over your budget but it is a good first dslr another camera you could look at would be the canon EOS rebel T1i and the canon eos rebel T2i both of which will be over budget. So below is a link to a used nikon D3000 for $399.95 with a lens included, although it does not shoot HD video i believe it will pretty much be the best deal you can find that will keep you under budget.ill also give a link to a used D3100 which is what you wanted to start with but its price is 479.95 before shipping and handling which depending how close you are to new york could cost you a Fortune.

nikon d3000:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...amera.html

nikon d3100:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...amera.html

For a photography class you will either need a SLR or a DSLR. Bridge cameras as the SX30IS are usually not ok.

Also check with the teacher if you can use a digital SLR (DSLR) or if it must be a film SLR. Some still require the latter.

The D3100 would be a DSLR that is suitable if DSLRs are allowed… Just about any DSLR would, then.
Other good ones are the Canon 1100D (also called T3, not to be confused with the more expensive T3i) or Pentax Kx and Kr.

I think any DSLR will do. The Nikon D3100 defitnety!