If you can afford it I would stay away from the Nikon coolpix 8900 and get a real DSLR to which you can add lenses, flashes, etc over time... having a growing and adaptable system. If you are willing to consider the price of the Canon 20D, then I would also look at the Nikon D200, which although slightly more expensive (list price $1699), and not as easy to get yet, is THE best camera you can get for less than $3000. One decision you do need to make is whether you are going with a Nikon or Canon system. Both have their pros and cons. Canon tends to update technology more frequently (but this also means what you buy is obsolete quicker). Nikons generally feel better in the hand (better ergonomics), hold their value longer, and have a better flash system. And the website www.nikonians.org is probably the best forum for getting any question answered about any Nikon. If you are interested in a used D70 I know someone on the US east coast who has a good one for sale at a reasonable price.