looking for a good camera for wifes bday
 

I am looking for a camera for the wifes bday present and was wondering what you guys would recommend. Looking for a great all around camera that has changeable lenses and will be used outdoors and indoors to take pics up close and far. I know nothing about cameras except that I have heard the DLSR types take good pics...? Thanks for your help!

D5100 if you can afford it. It's a great all around camera

That's within the price range. Do they make something smaller more compact?

Does anyone have experience with the Nikon J1 10mp? Looks small and compact and can change the lens.

I've never held one but is NEW

Take a look into Canon. Their lower-end DSLR cameras are an excellent platform for someone to start into a little higher end photography. I have owned an XSi, a T3i and currently own two 7D's and one 60D. I have had amazing results with the cheaper ones. Unfortunately all DSLRs are relatively the same regarding sizes, it's pretty uniform. Check out the Rebel XS, T3, T1i, T2i and T3i. Your best bet is probably to go into a camera store and ask someone, they'll be more assistance spec and comparison wise. It's all up to preference. Oh, and if you wanna get away cheap look into getting a package (camera + lens).. Most camera stores have these in your price range.

Thanks, currently looking at the Canon T3 for about $500

I have an Olympus Pen E-PL1 it is a compact DSLR type camera. I like it a lot. Canon doesn't make a compact DSLR camera, but nikon and sony and a couple others make ones.

My wife did a lot of research and went with the canon t2i. I can't remember why but she said its better than the t3i.

Thanks for the info guys, I think the T3 will make a nice entry level camera.