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1) Single Lens Reflex. This means that the light coming from the subject is reflected by mirrors and a prism to the viewfinder. That way, you see exactly what the lens sees, and do not view your subject through a window off to the side. Benefits? Accuracy of framing and the ability to see any modifications (zoom lenses, filters, etc) that you use.

2) 35mm SLR and digital slr (DSLR) operate on identical principles. The difference lies in the 35mm film used by the 35mm SLR and the electronic sensor used by the DSLR. Many DSLR's use a smaller sensor than 35mm, so they use only the center of each lens. Effectively, many lenses for 35mm cameras have their focal length virtually multiplied by factors such as 1.5 when used on a DSLR. (Eg. A 18-70mm lens gives the effective view of a 27-105mm lens)

Other differences are the review lcd, which give you an immediate image after the photo is taken. You can decide immediately if you need to take another shot if the first one is unsatisfactory.

You can also adjust the ISO (light-gathering sensitivity) within the camera with a DSLR, something you can only do with a 35mm SLR by changing film.

The economy of a DSLR is amazing. You can take 24 pictures with a 35mm SLR and spend $7 or more to process and print the roll. This includes the usual collection of photos that end up in the shoebox in the closet, because they aren't "good enough" for the frame or album. With a DSLR, you can take hundreds of photos on reuseable memory cards. Photos that aren't satisfactory can be erased in the camera on the spot. After downloading the images to your computer and/or burning them to a cd, the memory card can be formated and used over and over. I can carry thousands of photos on a flashdrive in my pocket that is smaller than a pack of gum. I can print only the photos I want, either via online vendors, at store photo counters, kiosks, or at home on affordable photoprinters.

If you want, you can adjust lighting, color, composition, and other picture qualities in the computer or camera. These are things you can't do with film unless you are well trainned in the darkroom and can afford very expensive equipment and chemicals.

You can also easily send your images electronically to friends and family online. Print them if you wish, or store them without the bulk or expense of 35mm.

3) I'd recommend any camera in the Nikon or Canon DSLR line. Both brands are well supported by their own lenses & accessories. Likewise, third-party support is excellent.

The choice is personal, as you need to find a camera that suits the type of photography you wish to pursue. Are you looking at sports, landscapes, portraits, fine art, etc? Personally, I use Nikon because of the long line of Nikon lenses that my cameras can utilize. The Nikon 35mm and DSLR line feels right in my hands as I like the controls, menus, and feel.

Others could speak as well for the Canon (with one "n", thank you) DSLR cameras, and I find them side by side with me at sporting and news events.

The Nikon D40 and the new D60 are great introductory cameras, as are the D80 and D200. I've handled or used them or their cousins and can attest to their ease of use and the quality of their photos.

One more bit of info you might find hand.

http://www.jdpower.com/electronics/ratings/digital...

For individual reviews, try this site.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/default.asp?view=a...

Much of your decision will also depend on your price range. Remember, if you buy a $2000 camera, you have a great camera. If you by a $1200 camera and two $400 lenses, you have a great system.

I hope this helps. If you have any more questions, please just ask.

Questions 1 & 2 have been well-answered. As for Question # 3...

Since you say you are very interested in photography, IMO you should be enrolling in photography classes as soon as possible. Simply purchasing a "professional" camera will not result in you taking "professional high quality" photos.

You have to know about composition, lighting, shutter speeds, f-stops (aka aperture), ISO settings. You need to know how to look at a scene, decide what kind of image you want to make and know how to make it. These are things you will learn in your photography classes.

It is possible to learn a lot on your own but its harder to do. If you have no other choice, I suggest you buy a Pentax K1000 with a 50mm f1.7 lens and the Owner's Manual for the camera. The K1000 is a 100% manual 35mm film camera and an excellent learning tool. Read the Owner's Manual and you'll be able to get started.

Buy a copy of "Object & Image: An Introduction To Photography, Third Edition" by George M. Craven. Buy a copy of "How To Select and Use Pentax SLR Cameras" by Carl Shipman. Both books should be on eBay and at amazon.com.

After using your Pentax K1000 for a year you should be ready to begin looking at a DSLR.

There are no shortcuts to learning photography. Buying an expensive camera and leaving it in Program or Auto Mode so it makes all the decisions is not photography IMO.

Photographers who know and understand light, composition, f-stops, ISO and shutter speeds produce good images.

There are no professional cameras. There are professional (and advanced amateur) photographers.

Single Lens Reflex

There's a mirror inside the body of the camera, it lets you see the image you're pointing at as is.

The original SLR uses film. A digital SLR does not.

The Nikon D40 is an excellent DSLR for a beginner (or anyone, for that matter), as is the Canon XT. But you have to shop around and see what you like best.

edit: here you go: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_single-lens_r...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single-lens_reflex_ca...

Single Light Reflection = SLR

One is obviously digital, and the other is not.

The digital is newer and is easier to use. However, the

original SLR gives you more of a creative edge.

I personally like Nikon. Crisp, clear, beautiful pictures everytime.

I've stuck with them through my entire life, and never a single

problem.

:]]

good luck, and share some of your pictures!!

SLR means single lens reflect, it allows you to see exactly what is going to be captures. DSLR just means digital instead of film. Check out the nikon d40 to get an idea of what this is. hope this helps.

the post below is not correct by the way

Give 10 to George Y.

All good advice so far in the answers. To add another to the recommendation list is the Canon EOS Rebel XTi. It is a great DSLR Camera and produces high quality images.

maybe you can try this Canon PowerShot A710 IS that i found on 88db...and i think Canon is a good camera