become a photographer

After reading through the magazine that i’d bought and the reviews of different models of Nikon through this excellent site, Ken Rockwell I’ve decided to go for this one. Nikon D40. Website highly recommended for anyone interested in looking into Nikon or Cannon.

I recently purchased a magazine called “What Digital Camera” and on the cover of it ‘Nikon d40, Olympus E400 two of the worlds smallest DSLRs make their debut’ plus! ‘The Best cameras and accessories of 2006 revealed’

This is a start in my quest to be photographer.

I’m really considering taking up photography, not professionally but rather for the fun and enjoyment of taking pictures.

My friend is taking a backpacking trip around Europe and bought himself a Nikon SLR (i’m not sure about the model number)

I’m looking to buy a similar model and make, but i’ve been told Cannon is also a very good brand in terms of SLR.

Anyone with advice on the difference between the two, or which cameras in general should i consider buying in terms of taking scenic panoramic shots with a high zoom lens. Everything i know about cameras comes from my older brother but he’s overseas at the moment.