Blacknight, I agree with pretty much all that you have said except to take some awesome scenery shots you do not need an SLR. I have seen several that shoot with P&S and they can blow away others with D-SLR's. Most people will only blow up to an 8x10 or maybe an 11x13 so a 5mp will be good enough for that. Also, the TWO common cards really are SD and CF. I do agree with playing with the camera in the store first so you can see if it feels good in your hand and the weight is good. Overall good advice. BTW, what store do you work at?