Why buy a 500D, when you can buy a 550D. Price difference in just minimal. Besides the 550D will be replaced soon anytime this year. So your 500D will be preceded twice by a new model. With a 3k budget, you can only go for entry level cams like Canon 550D, 500D, & 1000D or Nikon D3100, D3000, & D5000. It's not all about the body that produces a good quality image, but a good "fast lens" (if you know what it means).
Why buy a 500D, when you can buy a 550D. Price difference in just minimal. Besides the 550D will be replaced soon anytime this year. So your 500D will be preceded twice by a new model. With a 3k budget, you can only go for entry level cams like Canon 550D, 500D, & 1000D or Nikon D3100, D3000, & D5000. It's not all about the body that produces a good quality image, but a good "fast lens" (if you know what it means).