Hi Bartmaverick, I'd have to say if you are a beginner, just stick with the Nikon D-80 or an equivalent. It's not how much money you spend on the camera or the lens but, the person behind the camera operating the system. Besides, they are coming out with newer technologies every year. They are getting better and better every year. Try out a Nikon or Canon around the eqivalent of the Nikon D-80 (10 mega-pixals) then as you get better with your skills, you can always move to bigger and better things.

Regards, Erik Barnes