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Any of the entry level DSLRs would keep you happy for a few years. I'd pick either Canon or Nikon. I have a LOT of contact with other photographers and time and time again it seems that either one of those are most likely to make their owners happy.

The most important part is to buy only the best lenses - camera bodies get upgraded, lenses stay with us.

You WILL regret buying cheap lenses.

Don't rush into buying lenses. Start with a kit lens, get to know your camera, that lens, and all photographic principles.

Through time and through use, you will eventually KNOW what other lenses you'll need/want.

The more time you'll take, the less likely you are to regret your choices.

If you know anyone close to you with a camera, consider borrowing lenses and "picking their brain" about their camera and whatever else they know.

Go to a store and hold a few cameras, see how they feel to YOU.

Keep in mind that buying a DSLR isn't cheap, even if you find a good deal for body and kit lens.

You'll also want and/or need a few other things such as tripod, filters, a bag, sensor cleaning gear, a second battery, memory cards, perhaps a remote shutter release etc.

That's just the small stuff - I can guarantee you that you'll also want more and more lenses.

You'll also want a decent flash some day.

See how that list just goes on and on?

Owning a DSLR isn't cheap - at least not until you have built up a nice stash of gear.

Just some food for thought........

Do lots of research before you buy, and start learning about photography, too.

The very best thing you can do for your photography is to attend a class and read a few books and tutorials. Having some knowledge will make a huge difference to your images.

I hope I have expressed this idea clearly enough: YOU need to learn about photography because even the world's best camera will take lousy shots in the hands of someone who has no clue how to use it.

They are all good if you know what to expect from them. If you overshoot your expectations, you probably don't know photography yet. Entry-level does not mean for-beginners. It means it's a camera that was crippled to drive cost down so that people who know what they're doing but can't afford a better camera has something to use so that they can earn money that can be used eventually to buy that better camera.

Yes, the 550D is a good dSLR if you know exactly what you are doing.

Buy refurbished but only directly from Nikon or canon. You get the best deal that way.

I would recommend the Canon 600d.

Yes.