Camera recommedations

Rather than asking for specific recommendations (you will get as many different ones as there are people providing them, and what suits them might not suit you) I would suggest that you have a read through a few of the "How to choose a DSLR" guides. They tell you about the key differences between the different ranges (entry level, intermediate, advanced) and get you to think about what features you will need from your camera. There are loads of them out there. Skim a few and then really work through a couple that makes best sense to you. Once you have narrowed it down, look for online reviews of your shortlisted cameras to find out objectively what the pros and cons are. It is a laborious business, but you will learn about camera features along the way, and that can only be of benefit in the long term.

Example of the MANY guides out there. http://www.which.co.uk/technology/photography/guides/how-to-buy-the-best-dslr/

 

As I say, it is a laborious business, but worth it.

If you wanted to narrow it down, the Canon/Nikon divide is probably the best place to start. In reality, and on balance, the two brands are as good as each other, but settling on one will help you focus on one set of cameras. You already have a Canon, so why not look at Canons? I don't know what sort of Canon you have if it doesn't have a LCD screen. Is it very old? So, I would think you are looking at an entry-level camera. Lots of those, and the newest isn't necessarily the best. You can get more bang for your buck by buying one of the older models, which are sometimes still the better ones, in terms of picture quality, which is what it is all about.

Another type of review. Some Canons in there, but be aware that we don't call them Rebels here. Their other names (usually a three or four figure number followed by a D) are in the reviews.

http://www.cnet.com/uk/topics/cameras/best-digital-cameras/dslr-for-beginners/

 

Just to throw in my two cents as someone that does occasional photography work...

I would agree with MadamMauMau that the newest camera isn't necessarily the best one. That being said, I'm assuming that your camera purchase is going to be used for a lot of doll photography and so I would factor a macro lens purchase into your budget to allow you to get as close as you need for your photos. In general, when you get into the DSLR world, anything put out within the last 6-7 years will have adequate image quality so once you have your base body, the lenses are going to be your best improvement.

If you have any Canon lenses for your current camera they might still be compatible with a newer Canon body so I think it's wise to stick with that route unless you have a group of friends in the area that shoot Nikon and can help you with it.

Good luck and feel free to PM me if you have any general photography questions. I can go on forever about photography and I'm glad to help

 

If you have used a Canon, Canon would be a reasonable choice because you are familiar with their buttons and interface although Nikon has many advantages and I am a Nikonian to the core.

More important thing than a camera is lighting system. Buy a speed light or very bright desktop light.

The camera cannot be solely for dolls. It should shoot you and your family/friends. IMO, Sony could be a nice choice for most people who need easy and fast photos. Check "snapsort.com" before purchase.

My two cents.