1st DSLR? - an update with answers

[bravozulu]

Nearly two weeks ago I posted my first query here about diving into the digital world. Even though I had a decades-long career as a pro journalist using Nikon film equipment, the new gear seemed baffling.

Now, the shooting begins. Armed with a bit of knowledge -- thanks to folks on this forum -- I began by buying a 2 month old 16-85mm FX/VR zoom and SB - 700 strobe. At about 40% off (California is a sales tax state). With the money saved there — more than $400 — I felt more ease buying the camera and rest of the gear.

I bought a new D7000, a 60mm Micro and a used SB-800 along with a few accessories. I plan to do a lot of shooting with multiple off-camera strobes and am eager to learn the CLS system. I also noticed the sobering reality that the manuals for the SB 700 and 800 are 132-pages each.

And I just discovered the 'digitutor' video for the D7000 on the Nikon Products website. What a gem?

Let the shooting begin.