My best friend and I do photography together as a hobby and we both have Cannon Rebels. I love mine. I also have a friend that usus Nikon and she loves hers. I think you have to try out a few different cameras and see which you like. We have a place here that will let you 'rent' cameras to try out. I would suggest that before making a big purchase.
I also like my Cannon because someday I am going to buy the digital version and I can use all my lenses interchangeably.
Not sure that helps!
Jp and Diva