For the new year I would like to start photography as a hobby.
My budget for all of my supplies to start would be $400-$500. I need a camera and everything, but I am not sure what to get.
I would like to get something that will last me a while, and that I can upgrade. I've been looking at Nikon and Canon, but there is so many options that I am confused and don't know what to do.

I'd really appreciate some help guys, I mainly browse the computer forum, but lately I've been looking here too!

Thanks and everyone have a happy new year!

U could get a canon t2i with a kit lens for around that price

Are these good deals?

http://www.futureshop.ca/en-CA/product/canon-canon-t3-12-2mp-digital-slr-camera-with-18-55mm-is-lens-ef-75-300mm-lens-dslr-bag-eos-t3/10232634.aspx?path=66c8661be96a80db646c72e7539678d8en02

http://www.futureshop.ca/en-CA/product/nikon-nikon-d3100-14-2mp-dslr-camera-with-af-s-dx-18-55mm-ed-lens-kit-d3100-non-vr/10179493.aspx?path=496ef9ea136950d81ed37ba5aa6ef13cen02

If you're looking to buy used you could check craigslist. Or this camera group on Facebook. Lots of legit people in there. http://www.facebook.com/groups/cameragear/

just go for a nikon d3100 with the standard 18-55mm lense. it fits your budget and is a great starter dslr. you can buy macro and telephoto lens after

Well, if you're on a budget I'd consider against the D3100. You have to have lenses that have built in focus motors to have auto focus, it's quite annoying if you're a budget photographer. AKA you can't use the nice cheap prime lenses.

Canon starter bodies on the other hand don't have that issue, you can auto focus on any cheaper canon lenses.

Since the Canon T4i came out, you can find the T3i and T2i for ridiculously low prices. Maybe get a macro lens to get those bug photos.

i bought a T2i for 199$

where abouts! Craigslist? Online?