If you've never dabbled in photography, I would suggest a quality zoom compact that you can practice composition, framing, lighting and posing without feeling overwhelmed. If you're moving beyond compacts, an entry level SLR body with a wide to mid range zoom quality IS lens or a a quality fixed lens super-zoom may suit you. I know this last suggestion could be argued, but I went from 35mm Canon 1000fN to a Lumix FZ50 and found this camera to be a great intro to digital photography with plenty of options for creativity and passable image quality. If you have a preferred photo genre, pick the best quality lens(es) you can afford to buy, leaving enough money for the body, filter, memory card and quality bag/case.