Getting a DSLR, best options?

[BFCTom]

Hi guys, I've done a bit of searching and found a few cameras in my range but I'd like to ask what people would recommend for me in my situation.

I'm a web and graphic design graduate and I would like to take up photography to help add to my designs.

It's also my birthday coming up so I'm going to get a DSLR that would be within the £300 bracket and would be suitable for a relative beginner.

I've seen people recommending the Sony a200 and a300, but I've always fancied a Nikon myself.

I just want a decent camera that's easy to use with a decent kit lens that I can just charge up and start shooting with straight away out of the box.

Any ideas or advice would be great

 

[BFCTom]

Thanks for that, I've seen photoshop's images and they did indeed look great just wondered whether the a300 was worth the bit extra.

I've held my mates Nikon D60 and it felt good and I've also had my hands on an A200 at Jessops, which felt a little smaller but still fine.

I'm leaning towards the A300 with kit lens for £299 at the mo as I can't find a D60 within my price range.

Thanks

 

[BFCTom]

Decided to go for the A300 and I'm more than pleased. Took delivery of it a couple of hours ago and had a little play

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39121840@N02/3597715949/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39121840@N02/3598520730

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39121840@N02/3598519268

Forgot to add, if anyone has any tips to help me improve my shots I'd be grateful for the help!

 

[BFCTom]

Thanks for that, I'll have a play over the weekend. I feel this is going to be an expensive hobby

 

[BFCTom]

I ended up with the A300 and a 4GB card for £299 so was quite happy with that.

I couldn't decide between the Sony and the Nikon tbh but my best mate has a D60 so I wanted to be a bit different