[Dabhand16]

Not an easy choice here ED.

On the one hand there is the all in one bridge camera that has the ability to do pretty much everything you want out of the box, but is ultimately less flexible than a dSLR.

On the other hand you have a camera that has, as a standard kit, initially less functionality than the bridge camera, but is infinitely more adaptable to any given style or shooting conditions. BUT to get to this position will require some more lenses, or should I say more spending?

For value for money and giving you the immediate opportunity to explore a greater range of types of photography I think the Fuji has it, but I'd urge you to handle it, and maybe some others like for like as the Sony is not really an equal before you commit. The Panansonic range are well regarded too. You need a camera that fits your hand best and has the easiest way to set and change the controls or you will never get the best from it.

After you have cut your teeth you will know better what is important to you in your next camera, and before committing to a particular dSLR make you have to realise you are buying into a system, so your next step is the big one.