Also, I like stabilization. I just can’t afford it on the fast-aperture lenses I want! And when forced to choose between the two I have so far gone fast aperture.

The lens I use the most is probably my 18-50mm f/2.8 Sigma. It’s good in low light and able to take group shots and even landscape and architecture. It’s the one I use to shoot groups of 2-20 people when I work a wedding reception. The one I enjoy the most is my 85mm f/1.8, though. It’s like magic for a portrait and is fantastic in indoor light. I also have a 50-150mm f/2.8 Sigma for wedding ceremonies where I can’t get too close. The best bargain in Nikon lenses has to be their 5omm f/1.8. For $125 you get a super bright, super sharp lens that’s good for portraits or 2-3 people. Just an all around handy lens that gives a high quality image. You have to zoom with your feet but most people choose to live with that handicap when they see the results.

Having read the second part of your Lifehacker piece, I do have an idea what you’re talking about as far as aperture – though I hadn’t considered how it varied between lenses. Actually as far as lenses, all I know is that lens choice is very important and that comparing some simple tests with VR/stabilization on and off, I pretty well convinced I want it.

As far as what pictures I want to take – for the most part, the world revolves around my kids. Though I do find myself enjoying birdwatching at the backyard feeder more than I ever thought & would like to get shots of them as well. Generally all of the point & click digital cameras I’ve used have taken fine pictures outside in decent light (though looking forward to being able to do depth of field). The indoor shots – even with decent light – have been _really_ disappointing with our current Cybershot.

And don’t be limited to one brand. Go Nikon or Canon, for sure. But choose between them by a) whatever you can get a deal on and b) if you have a friend who has that brand of gear you can borrow.

Lenses are key. The “kit lens” that comes with the camera is often not very good at anything in particular. I’m partial to lenses that have a fast aperture. Even my zoom lenses have a constant f/2.8. (If you have no idea what I’m talking about I can explain it!)

Getting an inexpensive Nikon body and a 50mm f/1.8 will take you a long way. I shot my entire trip to Chicago just the other day with a Nikkor 85mm f/1.8 and the other photogs were jealous of the results, especially in indoor lighting situations. Plus it’s great for portraits.

A lot can depend on what kind of pictures you want to take. What are you interested in?

Anyway, ramble over. Any suggestions or recommendations?

Be careful about straps, though. Just a week ago I had one come off unexpectedly. Luckily I didn’t have $2,000 worth of gear go clattering to the floor. I’d put on a new strap a couple of weeks earlier and I either didn’t put it on quite right or it just sucks.

Also, I have three camera bags right now. By far my favorite one is the Domke Supercompact. I found one for like $85, though. It’s a terrific bag for one camera and an extra lens and some batteries and flash. A good bag to shoot out of. I also have two Lowepro Slinshots.