I have the exact setup you have (D7000 and SB900). Hate to say it but it sounds like you have a bad unit. I have all the functions on my flash and have never had any issues with it.
There are some very reputable camera repair shops that can check it out, but if you did buy it on eBay, you may want to consider using their dispute resolution program, get your money back, and buy a guaranteed refurb unit from a place like Cameta.

One other thing- if you are doing video, then having an LED light is a "must". Of course, then you might also want to get a good grip (I like the CB folding flash bracket because it can handle both the light and an external mic) and an external microphone.
See, there's no limit to the extras you can buy to get that great shot or take the fantastic video

My D5000 had an early version of the articulating screen. It was fun for the first 15 min, then I locked it into the body and rarely used it again even with video.
If you want to use your camerafor serious video, then you may want to consider using an external display viewer. They offer a bigger screen, can be viewed in daylight, and have their own power supply so you are not running down the camera's power.
If you just want to take photos and videos of your kids jumping in the pool, then stick to the screen on your camera but help yourself to a video monitor hood so you can view the screen more easily in daylight

I have used the Costco inks as well as their paper and for printing the basics like family gatherings, etc. they are fine. If you are looking to print art photos, then stick with the name brands and best to use a newly opened cartridge for the best quality. The problem with any refilled cartridge is that the nozzles will and do clog.

If you can afford it, keep the 7100. I have had everything from a D5000 and up and now have the D7200. The entry level models are fun and have lots of cool features, but in terms of durability and reliability, models in the D7XXX series are the answer for those who cannot get into the full-frame Nikon DSLRs.

My friend works for B&H. He has never mentioned anything about unfair labor. In fact, the store's owners are observant Jews and won't allow their workers to work on religious holidays nor Friday afternoons or Saturday. Staff comes from varied ethnic and religious backgrounds and when I go the store, no one seems dissatisfied with their jobs
Al Jazeera is not what I would call the best source of news especially when it comes to NYC and Jewish businesses. Perhaps it would be better to look at reputable sources like the NY Times. B&H has not had any issues since 2010. I wonder if Al Jazeera could say the same?

Hi, Was looking for advice on lens choices for doing outdoor macrophotography. For now, I using my Tamron 18-270 with either a 12 or 20 ring and getting decent results (looking for a good Bokeh effect both fore and aft of the focused object) but might consider a prime lens with better f-stop range. I'm using a D-7000 normally mounted on a tripod or monopod and want to stick with natural light for now.
Thoughts??

Sorry to hear your flash died, but I also had problems with Yongnuo products. Bought their flash triggers to use with my D7000 and SB 700 and 900. Worked great for about 10 min then missed triggers and did not sync properly. Contacted the online vendor and they took back the products and refunded my money. There is no US support for Yongnou so you are pretty much at the mercy of the online vendor
Decided to go with Phottix products- a little more $ but had much higher reported quality and they have a US distributor who can help. No problems and quite satisfied with the units

I go back to Spain and France at least once/yr and I would suggest the 18-300 (Sigma and Tamron are both solid, affordable choices), however if you plan on doing any photos of historical sites, get a fast prime lens (I use a Nikon f1.8 35 mm) and/or bring a monopod as flash is not allowed in most of these places. It's also a great choice for those evening shots you'll want get during your trip. Plus you can get it all into a back pack and still have space for a tablet, passport, etc.

This link provides a comprehensive breakdown of all the Nikon lens code. http://www.photographers-resource.co.uk/photography/lenses/Nikon_Lens_Codes.htm .
As to quality, you can never go wrong with a Nikon (or for that matter Canon, Sony, etc.) lens. Still, the best way to judge if you have the time access to a good camera store is to go there and try it for yourself.

Would also add Cameta to your list of "best vendors". Have bought camera bodies and kits, lenses and flash (all Nikon) and have saved lots of $ without any compromise in quality. Never had to return any item and they'll even put together packages fr used and refurb equipment.

Earlier entry-level DSLRs such as the Nikon D5000 did have overheating issues, but the newer cameras no longer suffer from this. I shoot hi-res video all the time (D7100)and have never had problems.

Earlier entry-level DSLRs such as the Nikon D5000 did have overheating issues, but the newer cameras no longer suffer from this. I shoot hi-res video all the time (D7100)and have never had problems.

If think it is hard to sell film cameras, try to get rid of a darkroom! Have a Beseler Dichro 67 with easels, color analyzer, tanks, timers, etc. Could not even donate it to the local college. Everything is sitting in my former darkroom (now just storage space) if only for sentimental reasons

If think it is hard to sell film cameras, try to get rid of a darkroom! Have a Beseler Dichro 67 with easels, color analyzer, tanks, timers, etc. Could not even donate it to the local college. Everything is sitting in my former darkroom (now just storage space) if only for sentimental reasons