Its crazy how many choices there are - and how quickly crap changes, its nearly impossible to stay on top all of it. (But you know I try.)
Case in point, here is the Gizmodo - Announcement of latest Canon Rebel in less than a year they are releasing the next version of my camera.
The last line pretty much sums it up:
At $899 for the kit with a pretty standard 18-55mm lens, or $799 body only, this, people, is the new entry-level camera to get when it hits in March. (At least on paper.)
Now to clarify, we really are just splitting hairs when you get to this level of camera (DSLR) - Most brands (nikon, canon, pentax, sony, etc) are going to be awesome - and in a lot of ways overkill for casual hobbyists.
I am 100% bias - but here are the reasons I chose to go the Canon route:
- They have consistently been the first to introduce pro-level features into their entry level line.
- More choice of lenses (canon and third party like sigma and tamron)
- Larger screens and in my opinion simpler menus.
Also, I used to get a lot of stuff from amazon - but now they have been forced to start charging sales tax in more states - and on big purchases like this - tax is a big chunk. So now I try to use sites like B&H Photo, or NewEgg who do not (yet) have to charge MN sales tax.
All that said, back to the original question is it more than you need? Do you really need a DSLR, Tuff question. Especially because of all the new high end point and shoots coming out this year. There are a lot of people in your shoes - who want more out of a point and shoot - but don't really need all that a DSLR has to offer. This one from Samsung is getting a lot attention. Nikons latest and a lot of choices from Canon
Here are a couple pro and cons of having a DSLR that might help:
Pros-
Instant - and fast shooting ( My favorite I think) there is NO delay when you push the shutter you take a picture (and don't miss the moment) and can even hold the shutter and take a burst of pictures ( to make sure you don't miss the moment)
Ability to change lenses - while this gets pricey and annoying trying to decide which lenses to use/bring along - this is another big differentiator. Because your lenses are bigger - your pictures will look better - and work better in low light conditions.
Cons:
Size. I have yet to get over feeling kind of intrusive when I take out my camera in some situations - where I wouldn't if I just pulled it out of my pocket.
Lack some of the beginner level gimmicky automatic features. (Like face finder - or color filters)
Can be a little more complicated to just pick up and shoot.
