What is your favourite DSLR camera?

I’m thinking about getting a Nikon D5000 camera as it’s within the price range I’m looking for (£100–500) and I want to start doing serious photography and build a portfolio up of my work. It’s not something I seriously considered until now but I’ve got so much I want to say, visually.

What’s been your experiences with DSLRs? What would you recommend? Is a more expensive camera worth the higher price?