Here's some things to think about:
1) A DSLR WON'T AUTOMATICALLY GET YOU BETTER PICTURES. I really have to emphasize that. The pictures coming straight out of a good point and shoot will most likely look better than one from a DSLR. That's because with a DSLR, it's almost required for you to do some post processing (fancy term for photo editing) to get the best out of it. With a P&S, the camera does most of the post processing (sharpening, saturation, contrast, etc) so it would look good straight out of the camera.
2) You will need a lot of time to learn photography techniques, general SLR/DSLR techniques, camera-specific techniques, post-processing techniques, and other nuances.
3) In addition to the time learning, you will a lot of time doing. Particularly in post processing, as related to points 1 and 2. If you want the best pictures capable with your camera, this is an absolute must.
Now, this is assuming you're serious about getting into photography. If you're not, and you just want good pictures without so investing so much time, then a point and shoot will suit you better. But if you really want to learn, and can devote the time, then definitely pick up a DSLR. It's very rewarding when you learn a new techniques..but know the learning will be frustrating along the way.
As for which camera to buy...know that you're investing in the system. Meaning if you go with Canon or Nikon, you will have access to the wide range of quality lenses and accessories. And when you get more serious, you'll buy more expensive lenses, and you'll soon build up a system. Then when you outgrow your DSLR, you will naturally go for another Canon or Nikon camera, because it's compatible with what you already have.
Now, Canons and Nikons are the 2 leaders in the DSLR market. They're safe, and you can't go wrong with either. If you decide to go with the lesser known brands (Konica Minolta, Pentax, Olympus), you might someday outgrow them because they don't offer the same quality and range of lenses and accessories. But because you're brand new to this, and I doubt you'll invest so much immediately that it'll lock you into one system, just get the kit that you want. At the entry-level, the cameras are for the most part, equal. The lesser known brands offer more perks to compete with the bigger guys. The Konica-Minolta Maxxum, 5D for example, offers Anti-Shake, which helps reduce blurring, especially for slow shutter time (~1/4 second and slower). This is built into the camera, and will be activated for all lenses. With Canon, the Antishake (called Imager Stabilizer) is built into the lens, and you'll pay hundreds for each of those lens.
But again, you're new to all of this, and you shouldn't be already asking about what camera to get. You should be asking if you can devote the time, energy, and money into a DSLR system. Check out the forums at
www.dpreview.com to get an idea of issues and questions about using a DSLR.
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