I have used Canon cameras for years, starting with the Canon AE1 that I bought while in the Air Force in 1976. I've always appreciated the quality and the feel of their cameras, so naturally when they came out with the digital SLRs I started buying them also. I started with the EOS Rebel 300D, the 6 megapixel dslr. I eventually moved up to the 400D, 8 megapixel, however I didn't move up when they brought out the 10 meg version. They had made a couple of software changes and hardware changes in the camera, and many of the people I know felt it was a step backward. When they brought out the new XSi, 12 megapixel camera I went and checked it out. Canon had righted it's wrongs, and had delivered on their reputation.
For all of us that take pictures of our families, our cars, the runs and meets that we do, I don't think that you can find a different camera in the price range that will do so many things. The ability to change lenses, unlike the pocket digitals makes this a great choice. The menu options allow you to take a variety of formats, variety of colors, as if you had different filters on the lens. You can shoot manually, doing your own focus, or let the camera do it for you. The menus are much easier to use, unlike the dslrs of the past. For the price, currently under $750, if you can afford it, this is a great camera and will serve you well for years to come.
