some people gave me the following advice when i was thinking to buy DSLR:
more weight on Camera:
1) nikon d300+18-200 VR (in previous thread mentioned: costco.com has $2100 for total) you can buy a flash or filters with the money left.
2) canon 5D+50 1.8 around $2500
pros: you get the best camera you can
cons: digital body will become obsolete quick just like your computer. so make sure you are really committed to the photography .
more weight on lens:
3) canon used 20D/xti or new XT/350D $389 +50 1.8 $86 ( you have more than $2000 left for future lens purchase , like dreamy 85 1.2L)
4) Nikon D40 kit $499 , (you have $2000 left on future lens buy.)
pros: risk is small, after 6 months, if you still love take photos, based on your skill level that time, then you know which camera/lens/lighting equipments you really need.
cons: feel not good when comparing with others ..
i am doing option 3 now. and really miss option 4.(spot metering, Auto iso, 1/500 flash sync , much better handling).