Nov 25, 2011:  The Wall Street Journal's  Smart Money magazine:  So far, it us unanimous. CNet, Consumer Reports Magazine and, the December 2011 Issue of "Smart Money" on page 84 all recommend one digital SLR camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T3i

"The Canon T3i's intuitive settings help amateur shutterbugs capture crisp shots, even in low light situations, the pros say.  Its flip-out, 3-inch LCD screen lets shooters maneuver around awkward angles to get snapshots and video.  Plus, there are more than 60 compatible lenses.

Below we list organization, current price range and recommendations. We own a 2008 Nikon D60 with VR lenses and still love it, but you get many more features with newer models.  If you are paying top dollar for a digital SLR camera, then it is well worth the extra money to buy lenses with "VR" for "Vibration Reduction" or "IS" for "Image Stabilization."  

From CNET, Entry Level Digital SLR Cameras: $689-$970:  Canon EOS Rebel T3i (with 18-55mm IS II lens) $640-930: Canon EOS Rebel T2i Pentax K-x with 18-55mm DA lens (Black) $835-$1500: Nikon D5100 (with 18-55mm VR lens) We LOVE the VR lenses!!! "Though it doesn't rank first based on any individual aspect of the camera, the Nikon D5100 delivers a solid combination of image quality, performance, features, and design that puts it out in front if you're looking for a well-rounded option under $1,000." Top 4 RECOMMENDED by Consumer Reports, best SLR digital camera under $1,000 $850  Canon EOS Rebel T3i $850  Sony DSLR-A580L $750 Canon EOS Rebel T2i $750 Nikon D5100 (with 18-55mm VR lens) Subscribe to Consumer Reports

Next check the most popular models:  Often there is  "wisdom in the masses" so you should check a list of the  to see what others decided to buy: Best Selling Digital SLR Cameras You may not always agree with all conclusions from "the masses" or the experts from "Consumer Reports", but at least we know neither is influenced by the need to sell advertising. Final Step to selecting your new camera  Do your own research in the store as your tastes will probably be somewhat different from "the masses" or "Consumer Reports." Whatever you decide, we STRONGLY recommend lenses with image stabilization and the biggest memory card the camera holds so you never run out and don't have to fuss around with changing out memory when the light as fading fast where every second is precious.  These days, you can buy a 16BG memory card for a tiny $20