Which camera would be better to purchase?

I'm currently looking into DSLR cameras and I have came across 3 cameras that I see suits me. I'm a first time photographer and don't have much skill and need something that would work to my ability. Should I get the Nikon D3000? Canon Rebel XS? Or Pentax K-R?

I got the nikon d3000.fantastic.pics are great zoom is good. I recommend that 1.

Find a real camera shop that'll let you handle them and buy the one you like best.

The K-r, although commonly referred to as an entry-level dSLR isn't. It's higher than the two hence more expensive but far much better. If you get it with the two zoom lens kit, you get more value for your money.

Most important, stick with Canon or Nikon. Going with Canon can and will save you a lot of money vs Nikon. The Rebel XS is just a bit to low end. I don't think you can use live view on it either.

I went with the rebel t3 from walmart and absolutely love this camera. My brother is a semi Professional Photographer and he uses some nice Nikons so I do have access to something other than my intermediate lvl T3. My only reasons to want to upgrade is to get a 35mm sensor and a faster processor.

The Canon t3 is an excellent camera for a first DSLR. I found it less confusing to use than my old casio point and shoot. T2i and t3i are both nice step ups but since they are also crop sensor, they are better suited to someone that is sure they have no need to upgrade in the future or money isn't an issue.

As far as money goes… I'll put mine into lenses. I don't need a camera built to hammer nails with.

Keerok is right! I recently purchased (11/1/2010) a Pentax Kx. Now discontinued! The Pentax Kr is the next camera up in the Pentax line. I was a Canon man all my life but there are several things that swung me to Pentax. One the stabilization feature is built into the Pentax camera body. This makes additional lenses more cost effective. Older lenses even lenses from older Pentax film cameras will work on their digital cameras (DSLR's). Third and most important to me is the viewfinder is very clear with only one movable focusing square. There's less gobbley goop in the field of vision with the Pentax than with the other two camera makers. If you can afford to purchase the Pentax Kr in kit form that is with two lenses you will be much better off cost wise. I did not do that and have regretted it.

Canon rebel xs

Pentax K-r is by far a superior camera. It's not that Canon and Nikon are bad, but out of these three models the k-r is one step higher and more advanced. K-r competes with Rebel t2i/t3i and Nikon D3100/5100.