I have a point and shoot nikon and a canon dslr. Both are excellent camera manufacturers. Depends on what you want to do with the camera. Look at the cost for the bodies, and all the different lenses you think you may want and then you choose. Between the Canon and the Nikon, I don't think you can go wrong.
Comparing Canon and Nikon is like comparing Ford and Chevy or Hoyt and Mathews. They're all good, it's more of a personal preference than anything. What you need to look at is what your primary use of the camera is going to be, and what your buget is and then compare options between the two brands. Each one has it's own unique set of features at various price points. Personally, I've only ever owned Nikon and been very happy with them. However, when it comes to DSLR video in a professsional sense, I believe that Canon still has a slight edge on Nikon. You'll find most of your filmmakers using DSLR equipment are Canon guys. Nikon is quickly closing that gap, but they're not there quite yet. Although once the new D800 actually hits shelves that could change. If you're just getting into it I'm assuming you'll be on the low end of the cost spectrum. Most likely you'll be looking at the Nikon D3100 or D5100 and the Canon T3i or D60. For just getting started I'd try to get a decent kit - something with a lens, carrying case, lens pen, UV filter, etc. A good beginners book like one of those "Dummy's guide to DSLR photography" books will save you a lot of headaches as well. If you want to do anything more than just point and shoot you need to learn the basics about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, etc.
yeah im looking at either the nikon d5100 or canon t3i (600D). not realy interested in video because i have a canon vixia hfm41.
I agree with Justin. I do prefer Canon or Nikon. You can't go wrong with the EOS 60D! A great value for the money.
I only went with Canon for dslr because I already had several lenses from my 35mm days that would work on the digital camera.
It's all about ergonomics and personal preference when comparing Nikon and Canon. Lens availability and options become a limiting factor with other manufacturers outside of these two, but still viable options. The shooter, quality of glass, and simply being in the right place at the right time are the major differences between average photos and great ones. I prefer the menu system and ergonomics of Canon, but it's a personal preference, and many people feel just the opposite. I would get into a camera store and get your hands on the cameras themselves. Spend some time with them. Get into the menus, try browsing through settings, think about finger and hand placement. These are important decisions to make, and will better help you figure out which bodies work better for you. I'll second Justin's advice as well. You need to start with the basics. Learn composition first. Rule of thirds, simplicity, perspective, lines, framing, etc. These are concepts you should know to be able to "eye" a shot up before you ever bring the camera to your face. Then, once you're comfortable there, learn basic exposure techniques and terminology (at least shutter, iso, aperture, and white balance).
I agree with everyone on the subject. I have only owned Canon products and am very pleased with them. I feel the Canon menu system is easier to navigate. Used lenses are very readily available online and elsewhere for both Nikon and Canon. I own the 60d and bought that version because not only did I want to take pictures, but I liked the video recording options and manual audio control with this camera. Started off with the 18-135 lens and now I own several lenses. Good luck with your decision!
