What is the best digital semi pro camera to buy to use for weddings inside and out? My budget is around 1,500

I know lenses and cards and all that other stuff is extra, so the more bang for the 1500 on the camera the better. I have heard it's between Nikon and Canon. Please help me!!

It would be wise to watch out for any deal (like the one above) that is too good to be true. The D200 body is running between $1,300 and $1,500 at reputable retailers, so the deal above would certainly fall into the "too good to be true" category. Best Price Cameras is like many other "bait and switch" outfits that use a number of techniques to try and screw you out of your hard earned money. Before purchasing anything like this, check out ResellerRatings.com

Here's a link to the comments and ratings on this particular store:

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Bes...

OK - back to your original question.

Canon and Nikon are the two brands to stick with, for sure. They are both top pro camera manufacturers and they make quality cameras and lenses. They also have a wide range of lenses and other accessories from which to choose. The are tons of 3rd party accessories out there for these brands as well.

That being said, I would suggest you concentrate on the EOS30D, the D200 and the D80. The reason for this is that they have some pro features, but are less expensive by quite a bit than the very top of the line from these manufacturers. I personally own a D200 and love it. The D80 is equal in image quality but lacks a few of the "pro" features such as metal body, high frame rate, etc. But I would still consider the D80 to be "semi-pro". The EOS30D is also excellent, but I haven't personally used it.

Here is the best deal on the net right now. You get so much, including 3GB card and two great fast lenses. You can shoot anything and everything(just about) with this combo. Perfect wedding combo and the larger zoom is perfect for portraits. If you can afford it you will be starting out on a good footing.

http://www.bestpricecameras.com/prodetai...

That it is...between Nikon and Canon. A Nikon D80 with a 24-85mm lens and a SB-600 will put you just over your budget, but they are the tools you need. Don't forget to have a couple of 2GB memory cards (about $20 each) and a skylight or UV filter to protect the front element of your lens.

That offer above is almost too good to be true. The 35-70mm zoom lists for just under $600 and the 80-200mm about $970 then add the D200 at $1600 and you have over $3,500 of stuff and all for under the cost of the body alone? WOW!

PS memory cards come in 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and up. I have never heard of a 3GB card.

I love the D200 and if you are looking for a body ONLY at that price, this is your best choice.

Otherwise, I'd agree with fhotoace who has given you a recommendation for the D80 and a great lens and strobe.