[matthew]

..remember that this thread started discussing someone buying their first dSLR, with no legacy lenses to protect, and just getting started in photography. This is my 'elevator advice' -- a quick way to set priorities for a new purchaser -- and experienced photographers wouldn't be asking my opinion, anyway.

Matthew - I think you have some good points. Perhaps it was the suggestion that you made when you said that image quality should be put bottom of your list that I might disagree with.

What are the criteria you look for before buying a new camera, and what would you tell beginners? I'm more interested in other's experiences than continuing to type out my own.

All that said I would still recommend the Canon 20D as one of the best all round value/quality for money cameras on the market.

The 20D's a great camera. I see none of them when I'm out shooting in the rain, but other times, they're great. :D