Possibly looking into getting a SLR
 

I am looking at the Nikon d3100 and d5100. Does anyone shoot with either one of these?

Just got the D5100 today. Ordered from Costco. Body, 18-55mm, 55-300mm, bag and memory card for $924. Haven't had a chance to shoot yet but IMO a pretty good camera for a pretty good deal.

Is there a big dropoff in quality from the d5100 to the d3100?

Bob, I wouldn't really know if there is a drop off between the 5100 and the 3100. Hopefully some of the DSLR gurus will chime in. We got the 5100 for 2 reasons. 1. Costco's no BS return policy and 2. It has some built in shooting modes my wife really wanted. Other than that I am as new to DSLRs as it comes.

Here is one of the built in effects the 5100 has. The one my wife really likes.


Selective Color

That Picture is pricelesss!

Love That Effect Too
 

For sure!

Well I am still searching around for a camera, and I am now looking into the Canon Ti2. Anyone out there have any reviews or comments about this camera?

T2i is a great camera. I have the t3i and the only difference is the rotating lcd. I needed that for shooting video on a dolly. I used to have a Nikon D40 but i phased out of still photography and wanted a camera that could shoot high def video and crystal clear stills. The T3i has been the perfect choice. I have read that canons have superior adjustment options for video as compared to a Nikon in the same class. Can't go wrong for either brand....

from what i have read there is no quality difference in the d3100 to the d5100 out of the box. The only way you will get better photos out of the d51 is if you learn how to properly dial in. You have more options to adjust and manipulate your photos with the d51. The d31 is a great starter camera for anyone wanting to learn how to use a dslr. IMOH most people will never be able to use the d51 to the fullest potential so save yourself some money and go with the d31