Purchasing the right camera is a matter of your economics and the results of what you want to achieve. Question why verses what you are buying this camera for.

• You have to consider camera speed, posed family pictures or landscapes verses kids at play. Compact Digital Cameras take approximately 10 seconds between pictures (landscapes) whereas an SLR takes 3 pictures per second (kids at play). Yet Compact Digital Cameras offer movie capabilities, an  SLR camera doesn’t.

• What are the hidden costs, meaning what extra accessories will you need? Is your computer, monitor, and printer current and capable? You can spend a lot of money in this area and then hundreds more purchasing the right software

• Here is one outline that might help you with your camera selection. As good as Mr. Rockwell's advice might be, he is self-centered and always remember he makes money off of his website by offering his opinions

Taking a good picture

• Taking pictures digitally allows you to practice, practice, and practice and unlike film not pay for your bad pictures.

• The concept of the rule of thirds.

What software should I use

Once again this is a mater of personal choice, yet my suggestion is start with Adobe photo elements (under $100); all the pros use Adobe products. There is a lot of published help on the internet for this product that will help you learn fast. Then when you are ready you can move up to other adobe products like Lightroom and CS3