Quote Originally Posted by griffey24 View Post
Thanks everyone for all the suggestions.

I'm assuming if I start with the kit lenses, I have the flexibility to move towards p4's ballin' style later on, or does the base pre-determine what I'll be able to use?
No, you will have the flexibility of course!

I still think you should skip the kit zooms altogether and buy a stand alone body with a cheap prime until you want to invest in something better, although as a beginning photographer you will automatically think that zoom is something very important (lol) and I won't be able to convince you otherwise.

As Daven pointed out you should absolutely go with the same brand as your friends are using. Definitely choose either Canon or Nikon.