Looking for a beginner dslr?

Look at all of the above, but the Pentax K-500 is also a nice piece of kit.

Talk to a dealer and handle a couple of candidates - too many people can't see beyond Canon and Nikon.

Nikon D3100 is available for $390. That will fit your needs from what you say. However, if you think you might grow the hobby further, it helps to have more lenses.

Olympus PM2 with 2 lenses comes with the same price. In terms of image quality, you would not be lacking. PM2 is a mirrorless camera- so much lighter (should be good for a hike), but handles interchangeable lenses.

Sources for both are below.

If you want to read about mirrorless cameras, go here:

http://www.traitmix.com/#Mirrorless

There is none.

All dSLR's are basically the same. All brands and models are good. The more expensive the dSLR, the easier it will be to take the shot if you know exactly what you are doing. That means the cheapest ones are the most difficult to use, especially for beginners.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/982686-REG/p...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/982587-REG/p...

Perhaps instead of a dslr, you could get a slt which are easier and cheap to use.so in this case, I would recommend the Sony alpha a37 or better which is what I have as a beginner. And it is amazing for a 'novice'! But it is up to you. This is what I think is best though as a person who started only 1 year ago!:)

Edit: actually the best for you will be the slt-a58 which is £449. Straight in the middle of your price range!:D

http://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/interchangeable-...

Two, the Nikon D3100, or the Canon Rebel T3. Go to a store and hold each one in your hands. Choose the

one that feels right to YOU.