SLR's are great if you set out to take a shed load of good quality pics, special occasions, shows etc.. For days out though as others have said you'll get sick of carrying it. You can get some great stuff on a good compact point and click that you can stick in your pocket. The key to good pics is to take your time, practice a little on days out down the park with the kids. I'm hoping to get an SLR after using my mates, he asked me to take pics at a winch challenge. I got some fantastic shots and i've never used one before but i was sick of carrying it after just half a day.