whats a good solid choice for a beginner with regard to dSLRs?

something i can expand on with lenses, something with good telephoto ability...not a lot of noise in pictures...something with good MP (at least 8MP i would think), something NOT too heavy although im sure ALL the good ones are extremely heavy. I <3 my friends 20D -- its kinda heavy but i LOVE the features that it comes with, and it takes GREAT pictures without flash. the pictures are so natural looking! :)

also are there any dSLRs with Image Stabilization or is this feature not so useful when it comes to dSLRs?

just wondering. thx!

To follow up, you can buy lenses with Image Stabilization built in. They cost a bit more, but it can be nice.

The Nikon D50 is a great beginner's DSLR, and the Canon Rebel XT is quite similar in price and features. Image Stabilization adds a fair amount of cost, but is available on certain lenses- however it isn't typically required because DSLRs are heavier (thus more stable and less prone to shaking) and can also shoot at faster speeds than other digital cameras.

Hi,
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