The best SLR for you is one that fits comfortably in the hand, that offers the features and quality that you feel you need, And that is a part of a system that can reliably grow with you into the future. We do not have your hands so we can't tell you what fits best in the hand. We don't know your dreams so we can't recommend a system, and while we do know you want small and quality, there are far too many that qualify in that category depending on what "quality" means.

Personally I'm a Nikon fan, I have several Nikon SLRs and I swear by them. But there are as many Canon fans who say the same thing about their cameras.

The only advice that we can reasonably give is that Nikon and Canon can fulfil your dreams, both carry the most esoteric and flexible line of gadgets, lenses and bodies that you can't go wrong regardless of how outrageous your dreams might be.

If you have more modest needs, try Pentax, Sony, Olympus, Fuji and many other really worthy offerings. They're usually smaller and they take outstanding images too.

And finally, be prepared to compromise. Many features means a large camera body to provide the space to house them. If you're demanding professional quality and functionality be prepared to buy a wheelbarrow to carry the gear around. If you want something for your pocket instead, be prepared to have a camera that is less functional and producing a lower level of image quality.