Which camera is a good one in the beginner's professional range?

I would like to buy a camera in the $500 to $1,000 range. Beginning professional level. I was looking at the Nikon D40 and D60. Are they good? Which other one might be good?

I'd also like to take panoramic pictures. Is this Nikon camera good for that? What lens/camera would I need?

Hi Inka.... To answer your last question first: You cannot take panoramic pictures without a panoramic camera. But you can take a series of... say... three, maybe more, pictures and then edit them together to make a panorama.
Now to your first question: For under $1000.00, there are no professional models in that price range in today's market but that does not mean you can't get a good camera. Do a search for the Canon XTi or XSi... I see the latter where I am looking now for $837.00. I sent you the link below. Read the whole page, I think it has some reviews associated with it. The Nikons are fine... I just think these might be a little more user friendly for you. Hope that helps and happy camera shopping. I enjoy looking at all of the new things out there and comparing. Good Luck! Thanks for reading. :))

I would strongly recommend the Kodak Z812 IS. It takes absolutely incredible shots. It is a much, much cheaper alternative ($300) to some of the more expensive professional cameras. As far as taking panoramic photos goes, this has truly been one of the most surprisingly good features of the camera. You can take 3 shots and it automatically adjusts and combines them into a single panorama. I am usually pretty weary of things like that (technology being able to do things perfectly every time) but it has been amazing. Also, this camera takes HD video if that's any help.

The camera is loaded with features including an automatic mode which automatically configures all the settings for each shot and uses a software to touch up afterward, full manual settings including aperture, shutter, focus, etc.

I was blown away when I first got it. Good luck in your search.

The two cameras you mentioned are excellent.

The D40 with a 18-55 mm lens is under $470 at Amazon you can use the rest of the money in your budget for an additional lens.

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/recommen...

http://www.jdpower.com/electronics/ratin...