I had a Canon Rebel XS, now have the XT, (I sold the XS when I was in a pinch for money, and a few weeks later found the XT for a super cheap price, so I got it). I can't really tell the difference between the two. I actually think I like the XT better, but it might be all in my head. Perfect first dslr, imo. I never had one either and the XS was so super easy. I remember being sooo amazed by the quality with my lack of effort. I just had it on auto and the pictures turned out amazing (atleast coming from a P&S). I sometimes hate the bulkiness of a DSLR but I don't think I can ever go back to p&s quality. To be honest, I still don't really know a whole lot about what my camera can do.... but I'm very satisfied with all my pictures simply on auto, and sports mode.