hi guys, I'm interested in picking up photography as a hobbie but I don't really know where to start. What kind of a camera should I get for quality photography purposes that are at a low price? I don't know anything about photography yet but i assume I can't take quality pictures with my regular camera. I don't want to have to process film so i prefer digital. Can you provide with what specific brands and models? thanks so much.

point and shoot- canon powershots
digital slr - nikon d40 or a canon rebel xt or xti.

okay i guess i don't mind developing my own film, but i'd have to learn how. I'd like a slr or dslr. also anyone recommend any good ways to learn all about this stuff, I works unstable days and hours so i can't go to classes.

The best way is just to get out there and take pictures. It's less about the cameras than it is about experience - once you're past beginner status, that's when the equipment begins to matter imo.

canon 400D is a good semi-professional camera on a budget.. what matters most in DSLR is the lens though, that's where you should invest more in~

I just bought mine for $350. I lubs it.

I would not call the 400D a semi-professional camera... It's more of a beginner camera... When I think of semi-professional cameras from Canon, I think of 40D and 5D but maybe that's just me ^^;

is that the typical price for it?

A good point and shoot is all you need if you're just getting started. Canon Powershot is a great choice. Like someone else said, if you're just starting out, it's not the equipment that matters, but the experience. Get a feel for the basics rules of photography. Practice composition, concept, etc and try to develop your own style.

At the end of the day, your camera is just a tool. It's up to your own skills to take great photographs. So sharpen your skills first and don't forget to enjoy yourself. Photography is a great hobby! Good luck!

i can't take classes because my schedule is unstable, is there a good book anyone would recommend?

I just bought a Nikon D40. Maybe photography will become a hobby, I doubt it though. It's a great entry level DSLR from what I've heard though.

400D/D40 are definitely not "semi-professional" cameras, they're known as entry level DSLRS. My friend has a 40D and that thing is on its own level.

You can always look online. Here's a great website for starters: http://www.digital-photography-school.com/blog/

Understanding Exposure is like the standard for learning the basics.

http://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Exposu...d/dp/0817463003