Looking to get first Digital SLR.....

[Mackie2k]

I'm looking to pick up my first Digital SLR. I'm a huge novice camera buff, I love taking photo's, and I want to take it to the "next level".

I'm getting engaged, and going through a bunch of exciting times in my life that I would really love to capture on camera.

My buddy uses a Nikon D80 and I love the quality and speed that his camera performs at. Would a Nikon D60 at $599 at Costco with two lenses be a good start for me?

Any other deals/packages I should be looking at? Should I even look at a D5000?

I probably wouldn't want to spend more than $1000.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Munky]

That D60 combo with 2 lenses looks like a good deal. I'm assuming it's the 18-55 VR and 55-200 VR?? If you can find a D40 for less, I would get that too. The D5000 would give you the best technical image quality, better than the D80 or D60, but it lacks some features compared to a D80 like autofocus with older lenses and direct access via buttons to all the important controls such as white balance, ISO, metering mode, focus mode.

 

[shortylickens]

That Costco deal sounds excellent. I say "GO FOR IT!". If you can get a D60 with lenses cheap, thats one of the best ways to start.