I'm ready to upgrade to a better camera, any ideas?

Question

I'm not a professional, but I love to take photos. Usually I take them of special occasions, family members, landscapes, or something that catches my eye, you know, the usual. However, I want to be able to move up in the world.

My camera just doesn't have the kick or versatility that I'm looking for. Its a Fuji Finepix s700. http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/fujifilm-finepix-s700-black/4505-6501_7-32401643.htmlIts a 7.1 mega-pixel. I think its time to upgrade. However, I don't want to pay an arm and a leg for it, as its just a hobby and I'm still learning "real photography".

The things I would like are:

the option to change lenses

the ability to enlarge the images to around 24x36

to be able to take night photography with better results

multiple built in modes and features, but also the opportunity to go manual, for when I get better at this.

Nothing overly complicated. I want to be able to hand it off to someone else for a change so I can be IN the photos once in a while.

Image stabilization in all modes (if possible).

I don't care what size it is, I'm looking for better quality photos than what this is giving me.

I guess I'm looking for a camera to grow with my abilities.

I'm hoping you guys can point me in the right direction.

Answer 1

The Fuji in the link does not have the ability to change lenses.  Go to a real camera store, and check out the Nikon D40, or Canon Digital Rebel.

Answer 2

Dont get the Nikon D40, most people forget to mention AUTO FOCUS doesnt work on all their lenses!!!  

Answer 3

In that price range I have to second the vote for the D40. Its the best bang for the buck in an entry level DSLR. It will let you add lenses as you can afford it. Its easy to use but still gives you control over all of the functions. Its a Nikon so you get the product support that goes with that. Check out kenrockwell.com for alot of good info on the D40\

Added. No the Autofocus does not work with lenses that do not have a motor in the lens. But there are more of these lenses available everyday. Not only that but the silent wave motor in the lens is quieter, smoother and faster than autofocus in the camera. If you do buy the older lenses that do not autofocus, guess what, its not hard to focus manually. So its not a big trade off.

Answer 4

You should get the Canon XT..or the Nikon D40 those are in your price range