Unless you're a serious professional, brand really doesn't matter. They all have the advanced technology that will take superb pictures, assuming you know what you're doing.

People who are more into Photography are always hardcore biased, usually towards Nikon. However, Canon's do well, and so does Olympus, Panasonic, and Samsung.

what will be the primary use of the camera? going out and taking pictures with friends? if so, a cheapo 5 megapixel camera will be more than enough.

do you want those super detailed picture? spend the money and buy a Nikon or Canon