linda_baylis

<p>A little late, but wanted to add another +1 for Photojunction. It is now a free download, they have recently released a new version, and they some good tutorials available. Just check out the website and you can download from there. I have a design background so use photoshop primarily for albums, but have evaluated many of the album design options for mac and think Photojunction is one of the best.<br>

Also, if you wanted to go the InDesign route, there is a great free tutorial at:<br>

https://www.kissweddingbooks.com/questions.html<br>

Good luck!</p>

Thanks for the great advice everyone.

I thought I posted a response but it didn't show up so here goes again...

Budget < $1,000 which rules out a lot I'm sure!

Chris & Mark - I am definitely interested in learning the fundamentals and how the camera works manually and think starting with a normal lens may be a good option for me, despite my impatience and desire to leap ahead! The only body option within my budget looks like the Nikon D80 - what lens would you recommend? Alternatively, if I was to consider the Canon XSi or XTi does this mean I won't be able to learn the basics manually?

Thanks in advance

Linda

Thanks for the advice everyone - this is a great site!

Mark & Chris - I absolutely want to learn to use the camera in manual mode and I don't think it would be crazy to start with a normal lens first. Apologies in advance, but I am truly only beginning to learn about equipment....

So, if I wanted to keep my budget under $1,000 what would you recommend? I think the Nikon D80 is the only option with 2 control wheels that may be in my budget. What about the Canon XTi or XSi - do these options prevent me from learning manually?

Thanks in advance,

Linda

I'm looking for a good entry level DSLR for amateur photography. I'm really interested in learning more about

photography and becoming more serious so would like something I can 'grow into'. My main focus right now will be

shooting my children and taking some photography classes. Appreciate any advice.