I have a Canon Rebel 2 that I am happy with.
Takes great pictures in darkened rooms (like a concert hall).
Ping to Swampsniper
(check out his gorgeous picture posts)
Since you’re a total novice, check out the Nikon 1. It’s fully capable of action photography and beginner friendly. However, I would recomend something along the lines of an EOS Rebel or Nikon D series if you’re willing to invest the time in learning to operate the camera.
What kind of price range are you talking about ?
What sports ? Lenses have a lot to do with sports photography over cameras.
I’m a Canon fan but Nikon just introduced a 36.3 megapixel profession camera for under $3000 which I think will force Canon to lower their prices.
It depends on how much you have to spend.
Any name brand current DSLR is capable of excellent pictures. Some of the more expensive and newer ones will do better at higher ISO settings, and some of them are getting pretty close to amazing.
If your funds are limited, put your money into good quality optics, well that is a good idea anyway. Some of the independent lens makers are excellent as long as you get their top of the line. For instance the Tokina, Tamron, Sigma, 80-200 80-210 f2.8 are good for sports.
Also an 85mm f1.8 is typically extremely sharp and not too high. Also a 50mm f1.4, or f1.8 are often great deals.
I’d go with the Canon Rebel as well. Reasonably priced and very capable for your needs.
I also have the 430 EX II Speedlight flash which is a great help for even outdoor shots when working close up.
I think you can find a used 50 D for small money at Craigslist or B&H Camera also has used stuff.
Good luck.
Camera advise
I like Sony, I can use all the great old Minolta Maxxum lenses, lots of great deals.
Recently purchased the Sony HX-100V. Couldn’t be happier. Has all the bells and whistles, including numerous factory settings that make picture taking a breeze, while still enabling you to do your own settings. Paid $386.
what distance will you be taking pictures from, what kind of sports?
The Canon Eos Rebel 2 or 3 has gotten several recommendations, and they’re fine digital SLR cameras, little reason to spring for. 3 over a 2 Ti though, imho. You’re talking in the range of 500.00 for those, though, if that is an issue. The new Canon Powershot just below those is gettong very good reviews, if you’re looking in a lower price bracket.
I don’t know much about this at all. The mister uses a http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Nikon_COOLPIX_P90/
I think it takes really nice pictures, he tells me there are a lot nicer ones especially if you are going for action/movement shots. Anyhow, the one the mister uses is decently priced and I am happy with the photos he takes. I use my phone mostly, (hahaha) so I know jack.
I am sure SWAMPSNIPER will answer your questions best and steer you towards the best camera.
B&H Photo is great for buying electronics and photo gear. They offer great prices and customer service and they deliver quickly.
I use both a Nikon D40 and a Canon Rebel XT. Both fine cameras ... even though these particular models are old.
With either brand, you can’t go wrong.
I just picked up a Fuji x10 and love it. Point & shoot with optical viewfinder. Just what I need when not using my DLSR. Have fun buying a camera!
I bought a Panasonic Lumix compact camera that fits in my pocket.
-PJ
Go to CNET.com
They test, rate, and rank most electronic gear.
I second the comments on the Canon T3i. I’ve been real happy with my T1i for the last coupla years. Oh, and steer clear of Glocks {;^o]