Peanutter we have been looking to get into the DSLR field too. We wanted something that will pretty much cover all our needs and also act as a video camera in a pinch. The problem was neith DH or myself have ever used one.

We went into some camera stores also looked online at the different features and capabilities and have decided on the Nikon D3100. As a bonus it has a built in guide that teaches you how to use the camera and make the most out of it. It seems like a good entry level camera.

The one big piece of advice I have been given is be sure of your choice as the lens are the costly bit and they are not generally interchangable between brands. Some Canon SLR lenses do fit on DSLRs.

Hope that helps a little bit.

ETA We are getting the red one too LOL