First SLR

[cheechm]

I've used a Nikon D80 in the past (which is owned by my dad) so I have some experience with a Nikon, however having picked up a D5100 and a Canon T3i, I can't help but swing toward the Canon side of things. It seemed to be a nicer camera overall, albeit with a few inferior functions to the D5100 but also a bit cheaper.

I need a camera for while I'm flying (but not landscape shots, mainly in the cockpit, and at in front). In such a situation having a good AUTO mode is paramount. Given I'm out in the US and my budget is $750, what would you suggest?

Cheers

 

[D.P.]

Willing to go 2nd hand?
Nikon d90 is hard to beat, I think. Canon 50d may be similar but to so up to speed with canon.
Basically you can't go wrong if you choose the Nikon or canon model that feels best in your hands and offers features you want.

Some important features that differtiate the lower end cameras is the presence of a 2nd wheel to control exposure and additional function buttons. Less time spent fiddling in menus with more physical buttons.