(March 8, 2012) — Taking pictures is a way of expressing emotion and making memories last. For some, this is a very important hobby which requires more professional picture taking with DSLR cameras. The top two money makers of DSLRs are Nikons and Canons, according to Ken Rockwell, owner of the KenRockwell photography website. These cameras may seem similar, but there are advantages and disadvantages to both of them. In my experience, both brands seem to be of high quality, but that’s not the only thing that should matter when one considers buying something this important. Some functions are available on the Canon T3 and not the Nikon D90, and vice versa. For example, the Canon comes with image stabilization and is compatible with more memory formats, but the Nikon doesn’t have image stabilization and is only compatible with Secure Digital and Secure Digital High Capacity cards. However, both are compatible with the Vista system on PCs, have built-in flash, and have movie mode. The Nikon weighs around 1.4 pounds, while the Canon weighs 1.5 pounds. The Nikon’s 3-inch LCD screen is a tad bit larger than the Canon’s, which measures 2.7 inches. The most obvious difference between them, however, is definitely the price. According to Imaging Resource, the average cost of a Nikon is $1,160, but the Canon is about $497. The price was a huge reason as to why I purchased a Canon for myself. After using the Nikon DSLRs at school and experimenting with the Canon at home, I can say that Nikon functions are a bit clearer. However, after using the Canon for a few days, it gets pretty easy. Though the Nikon body is more compact, the weights aren’t too different. One difference I have noticed is that the Nikon adds shades of colors in the pictures, like blue and purple tints for outdoors. I can take the Canon in every sort of lighting and get a replica of what I see at the moment. Overall, both cameras are great at capturing moments and making them memories. Although the Nikon might be easier to use, buying the Canon is a better choice considering it’s less than half the price of the Nikon.