What are some good cameras in the $499.99-$699.99 price range?

January 16th, I'm moving across the country to live in Laguna Beach, California. I'm leaving Maryland, and taking the ultimate road trip across the United States with two buddies of mine, well, my one buddy said he can go and I'm waiting for someone else to get back to me, but I'm pretty sure she's going, but anyways, I figure this would be a good time to upgrade to a better camera. I want to capture everything. We've been planning this trip for a few weeks now, and I want a really good camera that captures everything. I want some opinions on different cameras. When I think of good cameras, Nikon is the one brand the pops in my head.

Thanks for the help!

Added (1). Anyone have any opinions on the Sony a33? I have looked at the Nikon d3100, and I'm considering it.

Give Canon and Pentax a look. Choice of camera in this price range is that they will all be excellent, however which you enjoy handling the most is up to you.

Consider the Canon T3 and the Nikon D3100. I'd suggest trying both of them out at a nearby camera/electronic store to see which one you like better in terms of ergonomics, since they're pretty similar in specs.

The consumer report has voted d3100 product of the year so you really should go for it. Also canon's t3i will also be good. However you might wanna purchase an extended warranty with the camera specially one that includes accidental damage. If si then the d3100 will be the best as after taxes and an extended warranty it will come to about 629.99. T3i will exceed your budget of you take an extended warranty for it

I think you should go with Nikon D3100. Its an absolutely lovely camera, nothing to regret. Will take outstanding shots and good quality videos. I suggest you read this review to aid in your decision:

http://amzn.to/....to/ndejmO

I've looked around and this is the best price i could find for it:

http://amzn.to/....to/ofoECC

Hope this helps.

A camera that captures everything.DSLRs will do that, but you will need to know how to operate it as well. You can learn that in a few weeks with no problems, by practicing and reading.

D3100 is great, so is Canon EOS T2i. Either one of those will be great.

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