Expert: John Oliverio - 4/11/2009

Question
My wife has become very interested in photography and recently took a course at the local community college.  Her current camera takes great pictures but I believe she has done all she can with it as it is not an SLR.  She is hesitant to buy a SLR due to the cost but I have save some money and want to surprise her.  Most of her interests are in outdoor photos - birds, plants, scenery.  Without spending weeks becoming an expert myself what would you suggest that would be nice enough to keep her interest as her skill progress.  I will spend the 1300 on the Nikon 90D if necessary but would rather spend less

Answer
Corey,

The camera body isn't as important as you might think.  Lenses and flash are more important.  You would be better off buying a less expensive model with the kit lens and banking the money towards higher end lenses and a flash later.  Actually, if you are willing to spend as much as $1,300 you could buy the Nikon D60 kit and an SB600 flash.  The cost would be under $900.  But you should also get her a decent camera bag (or a gift card for a camera store because bags are a personal choice).  Also a UV filter for the lens and a decent tripod.  At my shop we've got these neat tri-pods called "gorilla pods" that would be handy for taking pictures at ground level...   but you've got to see that one to appreciate it so ask the sales guy to show you one.

Think about these things....  or if you don't want to do the research, buy the less expensive camera so she can have the money to buy the things she needs later.  Because if you hand a pro photographer a $1,300 camera with nothing else. Then the next day give him a cheaper camera that is well outfitted with lenses and flash...   he will make better pictures with the cheaper camera!  Also, please don't overlook the flash.  Everyone does and it is VERY important.  Even for outdoor photos.  

If your wife has any questions about her gear, give her the link to me here.  I also answer questions under "photography" but she can ask any question she wants under the camera category.  

John