Sony NEX-5n, used, Ebay... $330..?
If Yoda were a camera, then he’d be this one.
Switchable lenses, small form factor, very rich color. Just fantastic. Don’t be fooled by the size of that beast.
For $550 get a Panasonic Lumix GH-2 (very sharp, and not huge) with the kit lens.
Your only other choice is maybe a Canon T3i given that budget.
When you get $2,500 think about a used Canon 5D Mark 2 —but that’s after u get some experience.
Forgot:
If you get either the GH-2 or NEX-5n above, then by ALL means get this ridiculously cheap and FANTASTIC lens:
It’s strictly manual, but ohhhhh man....wow. It’s originally made for security cameras, but it’s TOPS. Pro’s agree.
You put a cheap $5 adapter between it and either of the 2 cameras above.
GREAT LENS...!