Digital camera for a newbie photographer?

[Bliss]

I want to purchasing a digital camera because I'm interested in photography. I've been doing some research and am leaning towards something from Canon. I'd like to have at least 7 mega-pixels with optional zoom. I'd like to keep the price-point below $150 and I'd prefer something that could fit into a purse or back pocket. But I've read a lot of different reviews for different camera's and am having a hard time narrowing my search down. Do you have any recommendations for someone who'd like to get her feet wet?

 

[Bled Tattoo]

my first camera was a nikon and it was really good and easy to use

 

[fhotoace]

Actually to be a photographer you will want to find a fully adjustable camera and learn how to control your how your images exposure and composition while using various lenses to control perspective.

All P&S cameras are completely automatic, thus no photographer will be happy using one if they truly want to be in control of their shots.

In a recent article published on the developing market of digital cameras, there were four type camera users listed

Professional - professional cameras like the Nikon D3 series and Canon 1D series cameras
Pros and Advanced amateurs - Professional APS-C sensored cameras like the Nikon D300 and Canon 7D
Amateurs - entry level and advanced dSLR's like the Nikon D3000, D3100, D5000 or D90/D7000 or Canon Rebels or 50D
and social documentary shooters - any Point and Shoot camera



At your price point the only fully adjustable cameras available is a good used Nikon or Canon 35 mm SLR with standard zoom lens. Look on craigslist and you should be able to find a good one for under $150