Thanks 10964670 and c_watson|1....I really appreciate your time and the feedback. Per some of your points -
- I will be spending the least possible on the copy stand. I am hoping that once I get my distance-to-subject down (hope to produce actual size photos for most of what I have in a 8x10 paperback), adjustment on the copy stand will be minimal.
- I agree on skipping the kit lens. From what I have read, it sounds like a nice macro lens is what I need for the book, with a general purpose lens to come later. The best macro photos are my priority at this time as long as I can get all for < $1000.
- As for Amazon vs. the others, Amazon requires no $ up front, just a bigger chunk on the back end. Blurb is out because of the cost, Amazon bought CreateSpace and is folding them into their empire as we type, BookBaby has some up front cost. Not sure about Lulu. Amazon only requires a Word document to do POD, you can get proofs for cost, and take the manuscript elsewhere if not satisfied with the quality. Basically publish on a shoestring budget if you can handle the tech side (which I can). Not a big fan of Amazon, but it's hard to argue with free and Kindle et al.
Thanks again for your input...T