Which DSLR would you pick? - 1

Canon EOS 500D VS. Nikon D5000 >:D

Nikon

Go to the store and play with both. One of them will fit better in your hands. The controls of one will feel more intuitive. Get that one.

I always recommend what I own and know.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...S_SLR.html

This is a great camera. I've had mine for over a year and I'm getting the results I want.
It's a very good choice. In fact, any of the Canon Rebel line is an excellent choice.

Neither because I'm waiting for Nikon to come out with a DSLR with the resolution power of the D3X in a body the size of a D700 and they haven't done that… Yet. You asked me which one I would pick - that's my answer. I don't want anything smaller than a full-frame sensor and I want the resolving power of a D3X but a lower price. Its coming, but it (apparently) isn't out yet.

Try it out first before buying the one you like more.

I'd spend the same money on a Pentax!

But if you have to have Nikon/Canon go to a store and have a go with them. I found the D5000 too small and plasticy personally but have never held the Canon.

I would prefer Nikon D5000 12.3MP Dx Digital SLR camera
* 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor
* D-Movie Mode with sound; record 720p HD movie clips
* Vari-angle color 2.7-inch LCD monitor; one-button Live View

Nikon D5000 >:D