What DSLR is best for teenagers?

I'm looking for a nicer camera than my Sony wx-9. My family and I would be using it for casual shooting like graduations and vacations! I may even do photoshoots over the summer with it. What camera and lens should I buy? I'm looking for something relatively cheaper and easy to use. I'm really interested in the Nikon d3100. Should I buy an extra lens with that?

Added (1). Actually, I have experience with some photography so I was seeking advice on a good cheap DSLR that is able to shoot some family pictures as well as shooting some photography.

The age of the user does not matter.

They all work the same, so that part of the question is academic

The Nikon D3100 is a fine choice. The lens that comes with it is going to keep you busy while you learn how to use the camera efficiently.

Later, you will be able to decide whether you need a wide angle zoom, telephoto zoom or a macro lens.

There's NO reason to buy a second lens until you know which one you need or want.

For just casual shooting and basic photoshoots, a DSLR would be a huge waste of your money.

stick with compact cameras, but definitely upgrade.higher end compact cameras are able to produce results very close to what a DSLR can (provided you have the skill to do so) and they cost only a fraction as much.

however… It sounds like you don't really mess with the more advanced camera settings anyway. You let your camera automatically choose its own settings, right? If so, a DSLR would be a bad idea.

the high end compact cameras are quite good. I use one of the better canon powershots myself.

since you want a nikon, something like this would probably be best for what you are going for.http://www.nikonusa.com/Nikon-Products/Product/Compact-Digital-Cameras/26294/COOLPIX-L810.html#tab-ProductDetail-ProductTabs-Overview

The D3100 is good for beginners but I agree with Vulture, if all you want one for is casual shooting, it would be a waste of money. An advanced point and shoot or a bridge camera would suit you much better.

Question is: do you know the basics of photography? No point in spending a fortune on a DSLR, unless you know what you are doing…

you can learn the basics with the Sony, then move on… Learn about composition, etc…

if you can't do what you want with the Sony, what makes you think you'll be able to do it with a DSLR?

the principal is the same… But most children think that DSLR's will do what they want without needing to learn…

Be like everybody else and get a Rebel.

I second the previous answers: if you are going to use your camera for casual shooting I would not suggest a DSLR. Also, you say that you want something cheap and easy to use, neither of which requirements a DSLR fits. Don't invest in a DSLR until you know a thing or two about photography and how cameras work.

From personal experience, I can tell you that a good compact camera can take wonderful pictures and can allow you to learn about manual settings, composition, etc. I have had a Canon SX120 IS for almost 2 years, and it has served me well. I had some knowledge of shutter speed, aperture, etc.before I bought it, but it has increased my knowledge and made me more comfortable with manual settings. The only major shortcoming it has is shooting in low light. I would suggest a DSLR if you are frequently going to be shooting in low light conditions, but other than that a compact point-and-shoot or bridge camera will serve you well. That said, if you choose to get something other than a DSLR, which I encourage you to do, choose a camera that has manual capabilities (i.e.ability to control aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc.), as this will allow you to learn or hone your skills.

Hope this helps!

I'm 15 and up until christmas had the Panasonic Lumix TZ8. Their range has gone to the TZ20 by now I think but I would thoroughly recommend it. If you're going to be using it just for parties, holidays and family gatherings I don't think you'd need a full DSLR because you're mostly paying for the parts which serious photographers are after. If you want something more than a compact then lean towards a bridge camera as these have a lot of zoom and are good value for money but are still good as a point and shoot.
have fun!
(i upgraded from my TZ8 to a G3, a DSLR. There was nothing wrong with it!)

Age does not matter. A dSLR is a dSLR. Look for an entry level one (around $600, lens included). Nikon, Canon, Sony, etc. All make them.

A 55-200mm lens would be a good addition, but it really depends on your shooting style (you may find that the kit lens satisfies all your casual shooting needs). I would probably hold off on the extra lens until you get comfortable with using the camera.

A book on picture-taking tips would be money well spent.