I have been an avid fan of taking pictures from a long time. I have used many cameras from Film cameras to Digital camera options. Most of these being point and shoots. I was impressed with the options that Digital cameras ushered in as I could click any number of photos and would not have to bother much about the cost of developing film and getting prints.
I own a Canon Powershot 590IS from 2008 and was quite happy with the results it gave as it was a point and shooter like the rest, but it had image stabilization and it gave you the option of manual mode, which quite frankly did not give you options of a DSLR, but it gave me some flexibility to use the camera without flash and using ISO1600, and changing contrast etc.
I felt the need of having a better camera, but in my mind I still felt that I did not want DSLR as it would be very complicated to use. So I started researching on this using the internet and honed on to 2 Brands Nikon and Canon. I looked at the bottom of the spectrum as my intention was not a high cost and something that would give me everything I need to learn the use of a DSLR and getting fairly good results along the way.
It came down to the Nikon D3100 which shamed the second option Canon 1100D in terms of specs.
I still went for the Canon 1100D and let me tell you why (and no.. no... its not what you are thinking I have no brand loyalty). Nikon D3100 was very nice... seemed in a much higher league than the amount of money I would put down for it, but it is a little difficult to figure the awkwardly placed buttons and switches (this is my opinion). The interface layout is also nothing to talk about as it is as awkward as the button placement. One would get used to it after some use, but not me... I wanted a camera I can figure out instantly. So it was the Canon 1100D Silver Grey. I got this shipped from Flipkart.com and got it for a great deal (Indian Rupees 23,181) on 1st March 2013. Flipkart did mess up and did not sent the free 32GB SDHC card which was supposed to come with it (but they promised to send it within 10 days) so lets see..

Getting back to the topic.. let me say if you are using any point and shoot and are interested in photography you need a DSLR. Brand does not matter (Nikon, Canon) what matters like any other tool is whether it works for you and it does not put you off. Currently I am experimenting with Auto, and Manual modes. will keep posting pictures and my ramblings as and when time permits...
Until then I will keep shooting people and things... not with a gun but a Canon ;)
Happy Hunting!!! (for the perfect picture)