Hey,
I think the 500D is an excellent little camera and was/is my first DSLR. However, almost a year on and after reading some reviews and additional features I wish I had gone for the 7D.
The 7D is probably not a
beginners camera as such, however go from Auto and all the steps into between to shooting Manual mode. In the beginning Manual mode, and relationship between Shutter speed, Aperture and ISO seemed beyond me, now I only shoot in Manual mode. Soon you will be impressed at the features on your camera as you progress.
The tutorials and guides on here are also very good too, this one maybe worthy of a read
http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=99841
I'd look at the Photo Critque and Sharing element of the forum, get some ideas, read the critique and try and replicate them yourself.
Youtube is also a good resource of showing you particular setups and how shots are achieved or digitally manipulated.
Also, briefly read the printed manual. I'm not saying try and understand it because if you are new to the hobby, it maybe confuse you more. Just try and grasp what the camera does and its features, then refer back to the specifics in the coming days and weeks - thats how I started off anyway.
Talk Basics here is also a good place to hang out, you may find a question you have has already been asked before. Sometimes a 'search' returns the answer you were after otherwise create a new thread
I hope you enjoy your new hobby apart from it sucking the cash out you on lenses, flashes and accessories lol, but remember its ultimately all about the light ;-)
This is a superb forum, from what I have read and also advice given to me personally.
Andy
