If you are looking to take the highest quality pictures not just snapshots than a 35mm SLR Camera is for you. SLR cameras offer greater zoom, macro, and wide-angle lenses at a relatively inexpensive price. You can buy SLR-based digital cameras but they are extremely expensive and not quite as good as the film format cameras. If you are all about image quality a film based SLR camera can help you create truly professional photographs. Besides you can always scan your pictures into your computer with a scanner right!?
Other things to consider:
Autofocus cameras are simple to use, but they have more electronic parts and use battery power faster. Manual focus cameras can be difficult to use at first, but by learning to use one you will also learn to be a great photographer. Buying a manual camera can also save you some cash.
SLRs are usually sold without any lenses, what is called, "body only". You will have to buy some lenses in addition to the camera. We recommend you start with a 50mm lens, which will be easy to use and get you familiar with your camera.
Make sure to read the Newbie.net’s reviews and check out message board and other sites before buying.