New from Maryland and looking for advice

[CatapultFoot]

Hello, I joined this forum to help in my search for the right camera to buy. I am fairly certain I want optical and I would like to find a few specific models to go after so I can hunt down a good deal. I am fairly clueless so please be gentle

 

[leadduck]

If you're looking for a DSLR which is the most versatile, I would stick with Nikon or Canon. Both are excellent brands and very reliable. The Nikon D40 or D60 are good entry level cameras. Canon's Rebel xsi is comparable. For lenses, they will probably both come with an 18-55mm zoom which is fine to start out with. You will need to buy a memory card as none of them come with one. And be sure you get a UV or a 1A filter for the lens. This is $12 of protection for a $100 lens. Happy shooting!

 

[Antarctican]

Hi, and welcome!

I'm sure if you poke around in the subforums, you'll find lots of discussions of various camera makes and models to assist you with your decision. Good luck!