Canon Rebel T1i / EOS 500D Digital Camera with 18-55mm lens

I upgraded it from my 3 generation older Rebel XT/350d to this T1i/500d because the body size is the same but so many new features. The camera is ultra compact and solidly built. Easy for traveling with less bulk and weight which is a plus. I have used it for a month now and the picture quality is nothing short of amazing for a less then $1000 SLR. The high ISO is a plus for taking pictures in low light situation. Photos taken in ISO 3200 is useable. The 15mb picture helps as it is excellent for cropping. Battery life is incredible. I get nearly 450 shots before it need recharging again. The LCD is very bright(adjustble) and at 3" it is a joy to review the photos. I also like the auto sensor cleaning mode which helps to eliminate dust on the sensor. It also automatically remove dust spots on every photos through softwares. The newer lens that Canon made has image stabilizer and it really make a difference when hand held. Canon SLR also enjoy many cheaper 3r party lens eg Sigma, Tamron and Tokina to name a few. These 3e=r parties offer more lenses for the Canon then Nikon. So you will have alot of choices.

The only thing I wish for is Canon would give us a tilting LCD view finder so I can lift up the Camera above my head and still view the LCD screen by tilting it at an angle in crowed situation. Apart from that I am incredibly satisfied with this camera and I must say Canon did a good job with this latest XT upgrade. Wonder what they will come up with next