Best digital SLR for beginners

Are you tempted to swap your compact camera for a digital SLR? Then now's the time, because the range and quality of dSLRs on the market has never been better. Compacts are fine for casual photography, but they have limitations which quickly become apparent if you decide to get serious about taking pictures.

dSLRs have bigger sensors that produce better picture quality, they have more advanced controls, and they're more flexible than compacts, because you can use interchangeable lenses and accessories such as filters and powerful external flash guns.

dSLRs can look complicated at first, but they all have fully automatic modes for the less experienced, and the least expensive models are designed specifically for people moving up from a compact. You can then go on to learn about the more advanced features at your own pace. Many dSLRs now have a 'live view' mode in which you can frame your shots with the LCD display on the back, just as you can with a compact, and this is a feature worth looking out for. The autofocus tends to be slightly slower, but it makes it easier to shoot at different angles, and it's a more familiar way of working if you're used to a compact.

Some dSLRs now have high-definition movie modes, too. This is a very interesting development because the quality easily matches or surpasses that of normal camcorders, so it's a great way to get two devices in one. In fact, professional film makers and photographers are very interested in these cameras because of the results they can deliver and the flexibility of interchangeable lenses.

Resolution makes a difference with dSLRs, just as it does with compacts, although it shouldn't be the main factor when you're choosing a camera. Even a basic digital SLR will have a 10-megapixel sensor capable of producing super-sharp blow-ups, and, while more expensive models may have 12-, 14- or 15-megapixel sensors, the gains in definition can be quite slight.

Selecting a brand is more important, because this could be a long-term decision. You can buy extra lenses for any camera, but they will only work on a particular make. Currently Canon and Nikon have the widest lens ranges, although other companies are catching up.

Usually, you'll buy a camera and lens kit, and this is certainly the most cost-effective way to go. Kit lenses vary in quality, but they're an important part of the camera package, so check our reviews section before making any decisions.