Nikon D60

Lacking the traditional Nikon screw-type autofocus this model requires newer AF-S of AF-I type lenses for autofocus but weighs less than other models. Note the type G and D lenses can still be used without autofocus.

I've owned this camera for nearly a year now without any major complaints. This was my 2nd SLR and 4th digital camera, first with the benefits of both worlds and I love it. I shoot jpeg high for snapshots or action, and always raw NEF for artwork. This allows me to fully utilize the 12bits of color for better results after processing in Photoshop, etc.

I've used this camera on the water for several days and in -40*F temps for short bouts without any issue other than the flash wouldn't pop up on it's own when it's that cold ;). I've taken over 600 photos in a row to get a couple lightning shots on one battery charge. So this baby is pretty durable.

Now, to the lenses. I got the 18-55 and 55-200 VR kit from Costco, and I'll tell you what, Vibration Reduction is awesome. I have taken 1/2 second exposures with clear results. No joke. It doesn't eliminate shake if you're jittery but it definitely helps. In tough situations I always take a couple extra shots and only a couple times have I not gotten a clear result. However, even with VR the 200mm telephoto has a VERY hard time getting clear/focused shots without bright light, but that's another story.

I do wish it had exposure bracketing, but it's easy enough (even in freezing temps) to change the exposure to bracket for HDR or other purposes. And the Active D-Lighting does a great job of preventing burn-out in the sky or highlights (although some vibrancy is lost - however this can be fixed later). It is NOT the same as post D-Lighting, because you can't add detail where there wasn't any to begin with. I don't always use it because it slows down the fps shooting speed, but for scenery and snapshots it's useful.