well shiver before you decide on what type of camera you get you must decide what you are going to be PRIMARILY taking pictures of. as in action shots, plants, animals, microshots(tiny stuff), underwater, people, low light, bright light, ETC. after you decide that i can give you a much better idea on what I (not all people will have the same opinion) on what i think you should get. also a price range <------- thats a biggie as well. and then if i dont know i have lots of books i can reference. http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/index.htm http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/products/professional_cameras/digital_slr_cameras these are your higher priced cameras.http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/products/professional_cameras/pro_ps_digital_cameras these are some "cheaper" ones. http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/coolpix/performance/p510/ this would be almost ideal for a novice if you can afford something like this. i personally use a http://usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/digital_cameras/powershot_sx130_is and it is very good for the cost. you can look at the pictures in my album and for only around $230 i would say it cant be beat. most of the blurries are because of me. just type back so i can help you more. and just to add i will soon be back to taking and uploading my pictures soon once it isnt 200 billion degrees outside
if you do get a photography book get complete photography by national geographic. i own it and have learned SO much from reading it. it talks about literally everything a photographer should know and gives tons of examples. and check walmart before you buy they carry or can order almost any camera you want and from looking at them i cant find better prices. and good choice on a camera. http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/...aphy/national-geographic-complete-photography
i just put the link in there after you commented.