Need help choosing a new camera!

+1 on the used d40 idea. When you get a macro lens for it I would recomend getting something at least 80mm. Otherwise the working distance (closest distance focusing is possible) will be too short to utilize the maximum reproduction ratio (you would have to get into the tank to get the full 1:1 ration) You should be able to get a used sigma or tamron for cheep enough to fit your budget. you will also need a tripod. A slave flash might also be nice. you can get something like a vivitar used for very cheep.

 

We use Canons...Renee is shooting with a 5D mk II (I have Renee's old, old Digital Rebel 350). We have a Canon 100mm 1:1 f 2.8 macro lens...it's really nice glass.

Your biggest, bestest investment other than the camera will be a good tripod. We shoot almost all our photos using ambient tank lighting, so it helps to use a tripod, esp. when shooting in the aperture-preferred mode so you can utilize slower shutter speeds this way.

Also, don't be afraid to shoot lots and lots of shots, then pick the best ones...this is where digital really kicks booty on film and paper photography...it's cheap to do this.

 

macro mode or lens is what you really should concentrate on. point and shoot cameras have macro mode which you can actually get some damn nice pictures with. Other more expensive cameras you can buy macro lenses.

Just like any hobby it is all about what you are willing to spend

 

Got a Nikon D3100 and i love this camera. Its awesome, and its works fantastic. If you know how to use it, you can get incredible pictures!

 

I use a canon t1i and love it, IMO its worth it to skip an intro camera and go straight into the DSLR.

But also I started out with an Olympus stylus. That camera was fun because I could take it underwater. I used to make cool underwater movies in my tank with that. It was a great point and shoot that was drop proof, waterproof, and shock resistant. It was like 12 megapixels and took great pics for like 200 bucks.