nancy_klich

<p>Thanks for all the great ideas. What I thought would was a relatively straighforward question that would have an equally straightforward answer has generated so much information for me to consider that I hardly need to worry what I will do until I retire. I especially appreciate responses that sent me to other places for additional information and reviews of equipment.<br>

I still don't know what I will do, but have a range of options that I know will produce a great set up for me. I am torn between the D300 and D 90 and have made initial lists of must-have and like-to-have lenses. I know the used/refurbished route is the most difficult, but I think it may be worth my time and effort since I can get the maximum bang for my meager bucks.<br>

I will report back my final decision. In the meantime, I continue to read and consult the advise given to others. <br>

Have a great holiday.</p>

<p>Thanks for all of the info. I have a much better idea of what to look for and issues to consider. Since I built my slr slowly over time while living in Japan, I never gave much consideration to trying to get all I want at once and on a limited budget. <br>

I worked for a short time in the '70s as a semi-pro b&w photograhper for local papers and was photo editor of my college yearbook. I have been away from serious photograhpy for ages and ages but am retiring and want to spend some quality time behind the lens again. I want to get the best and most versatile I can since I it will probably take a long time to save for additional equipment on my retirement income. I can probably give up on the studio portrait stuff which will give me more equipment.<br>

I have a budget of about $5000 for a new computer and camera stuff. If I go with an iMac, I can free up about 800 additional for the camera stuff. If I go with a MacBook, I have the 2500. I'd love to have the flexibility of the MacBook but am torn between that and the camera stuff. Your responses are pushing me more to the iMac. That way I can go with the better body and/or more lenses.<br>

I will need some time to digest all the great ideas and suggestions, but I will definately go for the best body and glass I can get.<br>

Anyone know anything about Daily Deal Digital? They have a D 300s with a Nikkor 105 2.8 Macro for about 1600. Their site is a bit sketchy on details, which makes me wonder. Sounds too good to be true.<br>

Thanks again.</p>

<p>I want to build the best Nikon digital slr system I can for $2500, including a variety of lenses, lights, tripods, etc.. I have researched a bit on the NikonUSA site and read a bit about a basic, but versitle, system, but need more personalized advice. <br>

I came from the old days of film and had a Nikon with wide angle to 500mm lenses but no longer have any of that equipment. Any suggestions for digital camera and lenses would be helpful - I want the best quality for serious amateur shutterbugging - I'd like to take macro, portrait, landscape photos. I don't need or want any video or movie capabilities, but I do want the best quality photos so will take the video if needed. Also will consider buying reconditioned or brand new, so ideas in the "you might be able to get this camera (lens)" used will also help.<br>

Thanks,</p>