Recommended Nikon digital SLR

"What new Nikon digital SLR camera would you recommend for still photography?"

I've been asked this several times. Obviously there are many answers to this question depending on the photographer's needs and their budget. Let us assume their goal is to have excellent creative control over the images they make, while keeping their budget reasonable. In this case I would suggest the following:

Great Starting Kit

• Nikon D90
• AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II (for all-around shooting)
• AF NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D (for low light and very sharp images)

Today the above kit would cost you $ 1,029.85 US at http://bhphoto.com .

If you can afford quite a bit more I might suggest the following instead:

Amazing Starting Kit

• Nikon D90
• AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II (for all-around shooting)
• AF NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D (for low light and very sharp images)

Today this second kit would cost you $ 1,684.85 US at http://bhphoto.com.

"What?" you say, "I'm a student and can barely afford a cup of coffee let alone $1k on camera gear!"

Then here is what I suggest:

Least Expensive Starter Kit

• D3000 SLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens (KIT)

Today this kit sells for $ 549.95 at http://bhphoto.com.