want to buy my first SLR

[kvosstra]

is there a nice comparison of the macro lenses.

I know there are a number of them available - both the nikkor and tamaron lenses - as well as different sizes and probably some other brands as well.

Thanks.

 

[Skeptic_07]

Camera manufacturers are going to be coming out with new models over the next few months. Look for sellers blowing out the older models so they dont get stuck with old stock. Mfrs themselves are going to be blowing prices out as they sell off the models they are no longer making. Keep an eye out, theres going to be closeouts galore coming up soon. Things that look too good to be true, just may be true this time of year, you've just got to do your homework. Check up on the companies history if its a website (i'd stay away from most websites unless its bhphoto, amazon, jr.com, etc..) and check thier feedback if its on ebay. When you're looking at feedback, seek out the negatives and read them, it may be quite a few pages before you find one. If they're having a negative on every page you probably should stay away. Remeber, sellers can no longer leave negative for buyers so buyers have no fear about leaving honest feedback. This has been great for me but horrible for the dishonest sellers selling refurbs as 'new' items. Many of these sellers are gone from ebay now. Anyways, thats another whole discussion. Just be aware of the manufacturers juggleing thier product lines which is basically going to mean buku deals popping up on models being discontinued like the rebel XT (being replaced by rebel XS). I'm seeing the kit version (comes with lens) going for under $600 with a memory card and case.

 

[jthao]

if price matters..... nikon D40 with macro lens will do everything you mentioned.
if price doesn't matter.... nikon D300 with macro lens with do everything you mentioned and you probably won't upgrade for quite some time with this body.
I went with D80 cuss it's kinda in the middle for quality and price wise.

if you like canon, you can't go wrong with the canon 40D.

 

[kvosstra]

Ok - so I think I have decided to go with the Nikon d80 - and Probably the 18-200 VR lense as my all around lense - and getting a Sigma 105 Macro lense. Or a Nikor MF 105 lense.

Any suggestions on where to get these? and New or Used?

I know the d80 is on sale now - so Do i buy a kit on ebay - I think there is one for about $1350 for this lense (18-200) and body - or Do I buy the lense used and get the body separate?
Ill buy the macro separate obviously.

Thanks!!! Any suggestions are welcomed - if you want to send me a link to a best price that you might be aware of that would be awesome too. I'm searching myself, but never hurts if someone knows something I dont.

-Kyle