Here is a link to a professional photography site that has a comparison chart for cameras, including price ranges. The instructors are some of the best in the world, there is a lot of free things like newsletters, blogs, etc. Its all about the software interpolation of the digital file. Even 200 speed film has grain in it, which can detract form the overall image. By comparison, digital cameras when shoot at low to moderate ISOs do not exhibit this grain pattern, as long as the images are properly exposed. Digital cameras show image noise at high ISOs and typically if underexposed. Fujifilm Provia slides, both in 35mm and 120 format. The 120 format is just remarkable when used with ISO 100 slide film, and when scanned I get the quivalent of about 25 megapixels.

SLR with a lower megapixel rating. The Sony A100, Canon Rebel XTi and Nikon D80 are all pretty much competitive and comparable cameras. Ill post the piece I wrote back then as it seems to address your inquiry. The February 2007 issue of Popular Photography has an article where they compared the top 10 MP DSLRs. Formula 1 gives championship points. 1st place down to 1 for last place, splitting the difference when cameras tied in their catagories. Ease of Use, Control, and System Flexibility. Go to the original question and read the responses for more opinions.

Nikon D200 or Canon 30D if you can afford it. 500 less, look at the results of the recent PopPhoto test and choose from that list according to your taste. Personally, I use a Nikon D200 and would recommend it without hesitation to someone who has some knowledge of photography. Id suggest the Nikon D80.

There are people out there who will state their preference for the Canon cameras and I will not argue with them. The Canon 30D and 400D are excellent cameras as well. You would have to visit a camera store or camera department and pick them up and see what you think. Heres another reference from outside the photographic press.

Consumer reports compared the Nikon D80, Canon Rebel XTi and Sony Alpha. Personally, Id say that the Nikon came out on top here, also. The next thing to consider is what lens to start with and where you go from there. 135 lens for the D80, and get started. This will show your parents that you have really investigated and know what you are talking about. Propose to them to sign a contract to pay them back for the phone within a certain amount of time. Make a list of chores and ask your parents how much each one is worth. Be willing to work it off or pay it back.

The key is that you have to follow through and really pay them back. If you do, they will be more willing to help you out in the future.