Canon DReb or Panasonic FZ20 (cnave)

[mindrules]

I have a strong interest in digital photography. I enjoy and am skilled at manipulating images with Microsoft Photodraw. I plan to learn Adobe Photoshop soon, I have purchased it, I have good software skills. I own a Sony 2 mpg DSC P150? point and shoot that I bought several years back for $300.

I need to upgrade. I identified Canon DReb and Panasonic FZ20 as two potential candidates for a Christmas purchase. I plan to photograph people adults and children, landscapes, flowers, trees, jewelry, create webpage graphics etc. I have considered doing professional work as a side business, I have no formal training (is one necessary).

1. Do I need the DReb or will Panasonic FZ20 suffice?
2. Should I buy DReb proactively now knowing that I may feel its need in the future?
3. Will I need more investment (lenses, tripod, carrying bag.... etc) if I buy DReb?

I have read reviews, read forums. Please help me make up my uncertain mind.

[lumixfan]

1. Do I need the DReb or will Panasonic FZ20 suffice?
2. Should I buy DReb proactively now knowing that I may feel its need in the future?
3. Will I need more investment (lenses, tripod, carrying bag.... etc) if I buy DReb?

I have read reviews, read forums. Please help me make up my uncertain mind.

Based on your inclinations, I feel either camera will suffice. If you have lots of lenses, you can lean towards rebel. Also are you willing to lug a big camera bag full of accessories or you want a single body of camera and lens.
If you get a Deb, you surely will need at least one lens, more based on your interests.

[jamison55]

I have considered doing professional work as a side business, I have no formal training (is one necessary).

1. Do I need the DReb or will Panasonic FZ20 suffice?
2. Should I buy DReb proactively now knowing that I may feel its need in the future?
3. Will I need more investment (lenses, tripod, carrying bag.... etc) if I buy DReb?

I have read reviews, read forums. Please help me make up my uncertain mind.

By "professional work" do you mean photography or web graphics and design? If web design is your goal then save the money and buy the Pana. If it is photography then you will probably want the DReb. While the Pana is certainly a capable camera for most advanced amateurs, it has limitations for professional work. The DReb will deliver higher quality images in more lighting situations due to the larger sensor, and since it is a DSLR you won't have to deal with shutter lag.

Depending on the type of photography you want to do, you will eventually want additional lenses, yes you would need a bag no matter what camera you choose, and a tripod is a must for any camera.