I have no lense obligations so I think I have narrowed it down to... <BR>Nikon <BR>D300 <BR>D90 <BR>D80 <BR>Cannon <BR>40d <BR>50d <BR> <BR>My budget is flexible but I certainly don't want to overspend. I am a camera novice but would like to shoot more on the boat in the upcoming year and would also like to take better action shots of the little one as he is starting to move faster and faster. <BR> <BR>Any thoughts? ...or any questions for me prior to making a recommendation?

i am new to slr cameras also. when i was doing my search i found the nikon d200 to best fit my needs. i found mine off of craigslist. brand new only 20 shutter clicks for 700. i ended up spending another 400 on two lenses. a 18-70 and 55-200. the camera is perfect for wakeboarding shots and a nice camera to take out with me on expoditions(sp?). you might want to look into a d200 hope this helps.

You can pics up used D200s for really good prices... i would look that route

Right now I am leaning towards a 40d because it can be had with a decent kit lnes for $999. Any thoughts?

I am in the same boat as you. I want a nice camera that I can learn with, but not outgrow quickly. b&amp;h has the 40d (28-135 lens) as you said for $999 and it takes 6.5 fps. I am leaning this way just for the speed (the Nikons are around 4-5 fps in that price range, i think). It sounds like there are diehard Nikon and Canon fans that love their cameras. Anyone have experience with both? <BR> <BR>With this, I have the same question as you do. Any reason to pass on a Canon 40d and look at a similar price Nikon (d80, d90, d200 that is not as fast? I know it is more to a camera than speed, but my reasearch tells me that both brands are quality and have plenty of gear availible.

The 40D is a solid camera but Nikon is great as well.

Thanks for the insightful e-mails. I ended up ordering the 40d from Amazon with the 28-135 kit lens with the hope that it will hold me over untill wakeboarding season! <img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/happy.gif" border=0>

Whoever said size does not matter did not have a 40d! <img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/clipart/biggrin.gif" border=0> <BR> <BR>Thanks again to those that assisted in my search! <BR> <BR><img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/87667/650820.jpg" alt="Upload">

Congrats Attila.