what camera should i buy..

[kariya025]

I have some expereince with photography but not much.. i want to buy a better digital camera. I'm looking for advice on what camera i should buy.. I want a camera with auto focus, but manual also so i can use it for a photography class.. please give me some cameras that should get..
Thanks

 

[bitteraspects]

INSTRUCTIONS: New camera buyers, please copy and paste the below questions into a new thread with as many answers as you can give, this way others can help you to find a camera that fits your needs.

Many of you wonder what type of digital camera you should get. Before you ask, make sure you answer these following questions. This would help us greatly and save a ton of time.

General Questions

1) What is your budget?

2)What is your megapixel preference? (The higher the megapixel count, the larger your image dimensions.)

3) What size camera would you prefer?
a. SLR; 1.5 lb+
b. SLR-like (Prosumer); >1.5lb
c. Compact; >0.75lb
d. Ultra-Compact; >0.5lb

4) What subjects will you be shooting with the camera?

5) Do you want the ability to change your lenses?

6) Do you plan to do any heavy post-processing in Photoshop (or related programs) or do you want to print images straight from the camera?

7) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?

Is battery life a concern to you, and how many shots do you hope to take?

9) Do you mind buying the camera online without seeing the camera in person?

10) Did you plan to make large prints or mere snapshots with the camera?

11) Do you want a large rear LCD to view your pictures with?

12) Is the camera's looks and stylishness important to you?

13) How long do you want the camera to last?

14) How much storage capacity do you want? (this is memory card dependent, but some mediums are cheaper than the other)

15) Do you need a video recording capability?

Please state any additional features you need/want. If you don't know how to answer a question or don't care about what it is asking then just say so!

I hope I got much of what there is to cover.. This wiill continually evolve.