I’d like some advice about digital SLR cameras?

Hi, I’d like to experiment and learn how to use SLR cameras.
I’ve been checking online to see what’s out there on the market, but I do not know all the terminology, and I do not understand what features are better.

What brand/model cameras would be good for an amateur photographer to experiment with?

I know they’re are expensive, but are there older models that you could suggest that are sub 500? Maybe refurbished ones? If not, you could suggest newer models.

I prefer that they be a bit compact, so that I can them out. :X

Thanks so much for your help! I’ll choose best answer!

I am a canon user, so all of my advice will be specific to the canon brand.
Nikon is another brand, which is equally as good, but I do not know the detailed information about the Nikon products.

as for Canon Entry level SLR’s, the current entry level model is the EOS Rebel XS. it’s slightly over $500 with the 18-55mm kit lens, but it’s an excellent value, and would certainly get you the experience that you’re looking for.
If you’re looking for used equipment, there are many discontinued models available on sites like Ebay or Craigslist. The original Canon consumer SLR (sold for $999 in 2003) was the Canon Eos Rebel. This camera is 6.3 MP and you could probably find one for under $300.
Next camera released was the EOS Rebel XT. Then the XTi
Each generation of camera gets a bump in megapixels, and other minor improvements, but any of these cameras would be a good place to start in the Digital SLR world.
If you’d like to see a camera before you buy it, Craigslist may be a good place to look, as you get a change to see what you’re purchasing first hand, as opposed to Ebay, where you’re buying from pictures.

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