what camera + lens is right for me ??

[jasonfodor]

Thanks for the replies, very helpful. Anyone have any other opinions?

I still have a few questions,
(1) do I necessary need a t4i? or can i do something like t3i/t3? The photo of the jeans I liked the guy used a canon rebel from 2007
(2) do I need any lenses? he used a Canon ef-s 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM or will using the stock 18-55mm lens kit give the same results as far as my needs?
(3) do i necessary need a tripod? the tripod recommended above is $200. kind of seems like a waste if I can just hold the camera myself lol
(4) i think I need the flash. do i need a diffuser or anything else?

[Busted Knuckles]

18-55 on a t3i is perfect. Constant lighting is much easier to deal with than flash. The usability of both the constant lighting and the better tripod than the cheapo at the local electronic store can't be over stressed. For the extra few bucks you will never notice the tripod, for a few less bucks you will be swearing at it. Somewhat similar to the cable TV adds - don't swear