IS this camera a good one?

[Chromatic Corns]

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Digital-18-55mm-3-5-5-6-Accessory/dp/B004VGDFD8/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1391225066&sr=8-11&keywords=dslr+camera

I took a photography class last summr and have been wanting a DSLR camera ever since. I rented a Canon rebel something? for the class and liked it but with nothing to compare to I'm not sure it was ok.

I'm looking for a camera and it's basic equipment for under $500 and came across this one. It will be used for pics of my kids, snakes and horse.
What do you think?

[HeavenHell]

Wait for a deal on the Canon T2i or SL1 or Nikon D3200.

[Nanci]

Do what HH says. Best herp photographer on this forum.

[Chromatic Corns]

I will do that then :) Thanks so much for responding, I appreciate it a lot

[Nanci]

I'm using a Sony NEX right now, and just got a telephoto lens, which I haven't had out yet. I really love it, because I'm too impatient or something to learn to use a fancy DSLR, plus if I had a big camera, I wouldn't carry it. The NEX is a decent compromise.

[Nanci]

What about this one??

http://www.woot.com/offers/nikon-d5200-dslr-camera-w-18-55mm-lens-8

[BulkMice]

Check out Pentax, the ability to use cheap old school lenses is awesome.

[HeavenHell]

There are several good brands of affordable DSLR camera available including: Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony. If it were me making the decision, I'd go with Canon or Nikon because of the selection of lenses they each offer.

I like Canon glass better, so that's the system I went with. Nikon/Sony have the edge in sensor technology and dynamic range. Nikon lenses hardly ever go on sale. You get a lot for the money with Pentax, I'm not familiar with their lens offerings.

[Chromatic Corns]

That Nikon looks nice too.

[TyeW]

Ever since I bought my first Nikon D3000 DSLR, I don't think I will ever use another brand. Their products are great. My mom has a D90 as well and loves it.

[Blue Apple Herps]

I have a Nikon D40 and love it.

If I had to do it all over again, I would buy a used body and then spend as much money as I could afford on good glass. Most kit lenses are mediocre at best.

Also keep in mind that the person shooting has more to do than the camera itself. I've seen people go spend $3k on a DSLR and then be bummed when their pics are no better than their old $100 walmart point and shoot camera.