The "Starter" package

[sromain]

I know I love digital photography, so the package I have put together to get myself started may seem overboard, but in some cases, the equipment may fit dual roles. I'm looking for folks to fill in holes, offer recommendations on alternatives, or simply gives me a thumbs up or down. At this point, it is what I would consider a semi-serious hobby, with no commercial aspirations.

Canon Xsi, body only
Canon EF 24-70 "L" Lens
imac 24" (specifically for the H-IPS monitor..and yes, I'd prefer the matte screen)
Photoshop Elements 6.0
Quality tripod, lens filters, hood, case (flash will be purchased next year)

I'm in the Army...so I like the form factor of the imac and the intuitive OS. Next year, besides some accesories and flash I's like to purchase the canon pro9000 (have a love affair with large format prints).

All told, I'm thinking of being in the $3500 range for my startup photo obsession. The imac will also be my study rig...so it's not simply a $2000 workstation

Am I missing anything serious here? I was going to put $5000 down on a Wrangler...another vwehicle that's in my bucket list...but am waiting for a fuel efficient diesel (damnit).

[poker]

SD Card(s)
Cleaning kit (air bulb)
Printer?

[sromain]

forgot to qualify what I'd usually be shooting. Primarily nature capture and some portraits (outdoor).

Printer...It'll wait until tax season (bout $500). SD card..yeah...need to get a good 266x //(transcend makes a sub $100 8 gig that gets good reviews).

Cleaning kit....windex? J/K...thanks for the additional input.

[Pgh_N8tv]

B&H has the XSi listed for $629 as a body only. For $70 more you get the kit with a 18-55 IS lens. I just bought the kit from B&H last week and LOVE IT!

Hope this helps, maybe could save you a few dollars.

Above all, THANK YOU for your service and keeping my family and I SAFE.

Come home safe bro.