I'd picked up a Fuji E900 last year which got me back into photography for the first time since my school days. I've always wanted to own an SLR camera but was put off by the price. Having seen this on Amazon for just a touch more than a Canon Ixus 900 I decided to take the plunge and I'm very glad I did. The manual looked daunting at first, especially as I'm the type not to read it, so stuck it on auto and set out to take some pics. The first thing that struck me is how the camera is reassuringly well built, feeling solid and of very good quality. I set it to auto and went out to take some scenic and close up shots. The lcd screen is good enough to see what you need, you can always zoom in for detail. On returning home I installed the software that comes with it so I could access the raw files I'd taken and was extremely happy with the results. It took quality pictures in a variety of light and proximity circumstances, the sharpness was impressive. I am now making my way through the manual and learning how to use it to the manner of which it befits. I'm sure the EOS 400Ds of this world have their benefits but this camera satisfies all the needs of the first time DSLR user and I'm happy to pocket the couple of hundred quid difference.

My one recommendation would be to get some decent rechargable batteries, no battery charger with this. It doesn't eat batteries but for long term use you'll need some rechargables, got a good deal on a uniross charger and batteries for peanuts on Amazon so I'm very happy.