Lotta good camera reading here, I am in the same boat, trying to decide on a good camera mainly for photos, have other cameras for video. I was told by a neighbor of mine who does alot of photography that he loves his Nikon D90, which he let me fiddle around with, that thing was sweet! However, my lil sis has the Canon T2i and bought a nikon model first, then took it back and got the Canon and she absolutely loves it! Cant remember what exactly it was she didnt like on the nikon, but the canon seems to be her favorite and she has had canon elphs as her previous digital cameras, point and shoot I guess they were.

 

They're both good companies but for me it came down to ergonomics. I'm a bit jealous of the Nikon AF but can't say I've missed shots with my 5dii. I had the T1i and loved it great starter camera with decent video shooting for those that are into that. Throw in live view and a couple good "cheap" starter lenses and you have the makings of a versatile starter package.

Also keep in mind the used market for cameras isn't like the used market for most anything else. Most of us baby our equipment and keep them in the best condition possible which is why most of the time resale stays steady over the years for lenses (not so much bodies). If you're not interested in video then you can get a prosumer body like a 40D or 50D for not much more. Keep in mind it's an expensive hobby so make sure it's something you like before you stat investing a ton into it. If you have any other questions, you can pm me or a number of other members on here.

 

For me the reason I chose canon over nikon is I went to Best Buy and played with both brands, and I just didn't like where the "shoot" button was placed on the nikon. The canon felt like it was in the right place.

That's honestly the only reason I chose canon, I didn't check the quality of lenses since I knew both brands were big and should have comparible lenses. Plus I got the t2i on the amazon deal, $800 for a 18mp dslr that shoots 1080p, 18-55 kit lens, and 55-250 lens which made it a great value.

 

U pretty much cannot go wrong either route. Both nikon and canon cameras produce great pics. all in all its the user taking the pic that will affect the pics mostly. Just get the camera and learn it