Good Camera's

Hey guys. I need help picking out a new camera, because my old one finally died on me. I am going to Africa next May, and I wanted to get a nice camera that isn't going to make me go broke (looking to spend $300-$800), something that i can buy some lenses to take some decent photo's with while I am over there. I am pretty much a newb when it comes to camera's. I've only had the standard digital kind that is as compact as you can get from Wal-mart. Anyone have any suggestions?

*bump*

Nikon D90 all the way spend 500.00+ on the camera..but if your going to Africa do yourself a favor..spend the extra 300..00+ on a 70mm-300mm telaphoto with electronic VR. You'l cry if you don't..

d40 FTW, $400 for the camera and then spend the most on lenses!

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm

i have a canon 20D w/ a 28-80mm lens, 2 batteries, charger, 1 gb memory card.

it will out perform any of the canon rebels or any of the nikons below the d300. it is also a faster camera than any of those as well.

really the only downside is the the small LCD. but that is more of a want type of thing more so than a necessity.


also who are you going to africa with? i am interested in doing an africa trip. i just booked an alaskan trip to get up close and personal with grizzlies catching salmon.

Thanks for the replies guys! I am going to Africa to work with the Savannah Cheetah Foundation, and we are also going to Mala Mala game reserve. I probably do want something with a fast shutter and will prob get a lense for my birthday (which is in march). I had been looking at Canon's EOS Digital Rebel T1i, but I'll check out your suggestions as well. My main concern is getting a fast shutter for any possible action shots.

rebel series is 3 fps or less.

20d, 30d, 50d, 60d, - 6 fps or faster. much more responsive camera.

t1i has HD video, but i would buy it for that reason...

i would pick one up as well. rebels are small and plastic feeling. xxd series is quite different.