Need help buying new camera!!!

Ok, here's the deal, want a good camera to take random pics of cars/nature/people/etc​. But, I'm debating between the 300D, 350D, and Powershot S2 IS. Reasoning is that this is just a hobby and don't want to be in debt for this hobby (car is killing me as it is). So, the Powershot has a 12X optical which is a 36-436mm equivalent w/ hi-definition and image stabilizer. I like the idea of not having to pack a lot of lenses, etc. The powershot also has manual settings and histogram readout. Also takes vids w/ stereo sound which is a plus in my book. Also accepts external flashes. So, the thing about the 300D is it's an SLR and the option of manual focus for better POF shots. So, people tell me your opinions plz.

No matter how much of a DSLR lover I am if you want to be able to throw your cam into your bag and pull it out to grab a split second of notice, simply turning it on and shooting away I would suggest the power shot S2 IS. Even though I have my 300D, I still carry a A70 around for those split second events.

Happy Shooting
Andrew

i thought i was the only one! *chuckle*
i was in the EXACT same position as you

i decided on the 300D for a few reasons, some of which are

• it shoots in RAW
  
• i can buy different lens'
  
• better quality photos
  
• proper manual focus (i heard the S2 IS manual focus is crap)
  
• totally adjustable manual modes, so i can select the aperture, shutter, etc etc.
  
• it's a digital single lens reflect!!
  

I tried the compact digicam thing and I couldn't do it. The sacrifice in pic quality drove me insane. I'd rather carry my 20d without the battery grip and a couple of real small primes 50 1.8 and 85 1.8. Or even just a small kit lens. My 17-40 I consider small on my camera. I pretty much take that any where.

The main difference other then what have been mention is higher ISO usability on DSLR. Most P&S are pretty much done @ 200 ISO, but on DSLR its usable pass 400 ISO point. This is something to consider if you only going to have one camera.

If anyone is interested I am looking to sell my G2 with accessories too. It is a step up from a P&S but not as good as a DSLR (which is where I am going) It is a really nice little cam and 4MP really isn't bad picture quality. PM if anyone is interested. I can give details and the accessories then.