I also brought a Nikon because of its quality. Although image stablization is a great feature, it actually works better when it is in the lense and not in the camera body. That is why Canon and Nikon chose to put it in the lense.
Nikon has won the JD Powers award for its line of Digital SLR's last year and was in the top three for the last several years. Canon, although popular, hasn't been rated in the top three for the last three years because of repeated quality problems. (they do have great customer support though)
I would say, go to the camera store and actually hold all the cameras in your hand and see which one feels the best in your hands. Snap off a few frames to see how quick the camera focuses, how logical the control locations are and perhaps other features that are important to you. That's really the final test.
Remember, when you buy a certain model, you are also buying into a proprietory system of lenses, flashes and other equipment. Although you can purchase components from independent supplies, the original brands are usally the best (Nikon makes the best lenses for Nikons)
Good luck
Nikon has won the JD Powers award for its line of Digital SLR's last year and was in the top three for the last several years. Canon, although popular, hasn't been rated in the top three for the last three years because of repeated quality problems. (they do have great customer support though)
I would say, go to the camera store and actually hold all the cameras in your hand and see which one feels the best in your hands. Snap off a few frames to see how quick the camera focuses, how logical the control locations are and perhaps other features that are important to you. That's really the final test.
Remember, when you buy a certain model, you are also buying into a proprietory system of lenses, flashes and other equipment. Although you can purchase components from independent supplies, the original brands are usally the best (Nikon makes the best lenses for Nikons)
Good luck