First time getting into DSLR

[threelittlepigs]

I would agree with 80% of what climber is saying. However, the Op mentioned that he will be taking alot of indoor pics which means that low light ability is an important consideration. A DSLR will generally be less noisy and allow the user to select a higher ISO so as to avoid using flash while handholding.

My personal bias - let me first say I really like the Canon S100, however, for many instances where a P&S form factor is appreciated I think something like an Apple iPhone will do. Therefore, I don't see the need for a p&s if one has a nice smart cameraphone.

Depth of field - control over this is very important even to beginner photographers, and the OP wanted to grow into his camera. Hence, if he doesn't mind the bigger bulk, then a DSLR is the way to go. As I said, the Canon 5DMkII will be dropping in price and this is a great camera (full frame is in my opinion the way forward - I am old school film guy and the crop sensors just don't do it for me). The camera is not important used to be the mantra in the film days, but with today's digi cams, the camera is becoming increasingly more important.

But then the OP never stated his budget, so whilst a 5DII is value to me, it may be too much camera for him price wise.

[TheBrit]

I would agree with 80% of what climber is saying. However, the Op mentioned that he will be taking alot of indoor pics which means that low light ability is an important consideration. A DSLR will generally be less noisy and allow the user to select a higher ISO so as to avoid using flash while handholding.

You are exactly right in this - I have three cameras - a small Canon SD-something (P&S), a Canon G9 (slightly chunkier - used underwater) and a Canon 600D. Outdoors, with plenty of light the differences between cameras in a standard portrait or landscape shot at not really noticeable for most purposes.

However, indoors the difference is huge - the dSLR with optical image stabilization, fast lens and better noise control at higher ISO creates stunning shots whereas the smaller ones are unusable without flash. Fast lens and dSLR is definitely the way to go if you want to shoot indoors without flash.

[mrdream]

Thanks guys. Just wanted to give you all an update that I got a Canon 600D. I appreciate all your help!

[climber07]

However, indoors the difference is huge - the dSLR with optical image stabilization, fast lens and better noise control at higher ISO creates stunning shots whereas the smaller ones are unusable without flash. Fast lens and dSLR is definitely the way to go if you want to shoot indoors without flash.

Did not see OP stated he wanted to shoot indoors / no flash.

Thanks guys. Just wanted to give you all an update that I got a Canon 600D. I appreciate all your help!

Good Luck! Did you buy just the body or the kit with the 18-55?

If you haven't done so already, I would highly recommend that you purchase a 50mm f1.8 lens (dirt cheap and fast)....although a bit long for a cropped sensor. Not sure if Canon has a resonably priced "normal" focal lens alternative (i.e. 28mm f1.8m, etc)...if not you may want to consider a third party...such as Sigma 30mm f1.4.

[PSMaverick]

Thanks guys. Just wanted to give you all an update that I got a Canon 600D. I appreciate all your help!

Welcome to the slippery slopes of DSLR ownership and photo enthusiasm

[TheBrit]

Did not see OP stated he wanted to shoot indoors / no flash.

He didn't, but I do and the results are great - was just adding some more detail to help flesh out some details.

Not sure if Canon has a resonably priced "normal" focal lens alternative (i.e. 28mm f1.8m, etc)...if not you may want to consider a third party...such as Sigma 30mm f1.4.

I have the 28mm f/1.8 Canon prime lens and it's a great piece of glass. 35mm equivalent effective focal length is just shy of 50mm on APS-C sensor. Was not that cheap but I am delighted with the quality - autofocus is fast, semi-silent and rarely misses.

[Raccon]

Thanks guys. Just wanted to give you all an update that I got a Canon 600D. I appreciate all your help!

Great, you can now loan it to karolanna.

But seriously, congrats on the purchase. And do post some pics taken with it!

[mrdream]

Thanks everyone I got 600D with the 18-135mm lens. Btw... everyone says OP here. I figured it was me you guys were talking about... but what does OP actually mean?

After I get the time to read the manual fully, I'd like to participate in some photography groups on here. If you guys are in any of those, I'd like to join some time

[Skyhook]

OP means: original poster...