What's your budget? Do you want to really learn photography, or do you really just want to learn to take "decent" snapshots? If you just want to take decent snapshots and have a little control over the camera, something like what Melanie recommended is fine. If you'd like to have a good deal of control over the camera, but don't want a full DSLR or mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, look at "advanced", raw-shooting compact cameras, such as the Canon G12 or others listed in this article:
The next step up from that would be a mirrorless ILC, such as the Sony NEX series or the Samsung NX series. Here's a look at some of the mirrorless ILC options from late last year:
Finally, you have the more traditional DSLRs, like the Canon T2i / T3i, or the Nikon D3100. If you're just getting started but really want to learn (like a student in a college photography class would), I'd recommend buying a used entry-to-mid level Canon or Nikon with a couple lenses. Scour Craigslist for deals; you'd be amazed how little some people sell them for. Look for Canon XTi (old model now, but very solid; it doesn't do video or live view if this is important to you), T1i, T2i, T3i (all "entry-level") or even a 40D or 50D (mid-range / prosumer) if you can find a great deal on them. I'm not a Nikon guy; but a used D3000, D5000, or D300s could probably be had for a good price with a kit lens.
I really believe that a dslr is the way to go if you want to "get into photography." It will leave you with the most options for customizability and you will have the most to learn from it. all of the basic dslrs come with great auto modes too so you can take learning as slow as you need to.
Discover the HD difference. With the classically stylish PowerShot SX20 IS, you can produce magnificent HD movies and dazzling photos. Loaded with features, it’s got a high-powered 20x wide-angle optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer, 12.1 me...
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I think this is the perfect beginner's camera. I have one and absolutely love it to death. You will be able to take pro-style shots with amateur knowledge.... that's what I have found at least.
Now, it's not a dSLR, so it does not come with the option of interchangeable lenses. If that's a problem, look elsewhere. It also doesn't have as many customization options as a dSLR. I think that is a plus though, because less options = easier to use and less expensive.
It has auto modes that you can select, in which the camera will set itself up with the right settings depending on the conditions you are shooting in. As you progress you can switch to manual mode, where you can control all that stuff on your own. Also, to help you with image clarity, it has a built-in image stabilizer.
This thing also has the DIGIC 4 Image Processor, which is the same processer used in Canon's high end cameras. Images will be simply beautiful.
Also shoots good HD video. I absolutely love this thing, and i think you will too.
Good luck in your search!
Discover the HD difference. With the classically stylish PowerShot SX20 IS, you can produce magnificent HD movies and dazzling photos. Loaded with features, it’s got a high-powered 20x wide-angle optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer, 12.1 me...
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I recommend a bridge camera. You get the features of a point and shoot, and the near-flexibility of a dSLR (being able to go full manual!).
*after noticing a similar post*
This was my first "decent" camera (before that I used an old 4MP Nikon with no image stabilization). I started out by using C for custom, then played with manual mode. For a camera to learn the basics on, it's a great place to start.
Photographers looking for an easy-to-use camera that will help them create their next masterpiece need look no further than the Canon EOS Rebel T3i. The next in a long line of phenomenal compact DSLRs, the EOS Rebel T3i continues the Rebel traditi...
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This camera is a good choice for beginners. It delivers the video and image quality of higher end cameras but offers the build and price that is more comfortable for those who are just getting started. The reason I choose this camera over the T2i is because of a more articulated LCD. It's
provides sharp images and great performance but it does stumble a little when it comes to capturing sports, kids, or pets. It is a top notch choice for the money, however.