Nikon is bundling the D500 with the new, and very capable 16-80mm f2.8-4 lens for $2500. Probably a good start point until you settle into a specialty requiring specific focal length and capability.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/photography/hands-review/nikon-af-s-dx-nikkor-16-80mm-f28-4e-ed-vr-lens

[quote=sathca]I struggled to see how any wildlife photograph could be cliche. And it’s because I appreciate nature so much. There are no two photos that are the same. Different pose, different action, different light, different setting. Since I started I have never been at a loss to find a new and interesting animal to capture and many that I want to capture in all the ways described above. I will never tire of photographing a bald eagle or an osprey or a hawk. I will never tire of looking for a new species of duck. I will jump at any opportunity to photograph wildlife of any kind because each expedition will bring something exciting with it. The same goes for landscapes. It’s a beautiful world out there and it should be explored. I can’t believe the beauty I find everywhere I take the time to look! When I see a beautiful landscape captured I want to go there! I want to capture that scene myself! A sunset or sunrise will never be cliche! Give me a million more! Saying Steve’s pictures are cliche is like saying photographing people is cliche. Each one is unique and interesting in its own way. The thing is....when you appreciate nature, which is life itself, you’re never bored. It is filled with endless curiosities. I have a collection of photographs of weeds and they are amazing! The geometric shapes and their perfection are dazzling. From those weeds to the stars above the world is truly amazing and I am thankful for people like Steve Perry and Kristofer Rowe that capture it so well and keep the fever alive in me, to hopefully one day, be somewhat close to as good as they are! These guys didn’t set these animals up on their kitchen table and photograph them. They get up early and lug their gear to difficult locations and through trial, error and perseverance they get the shots that not many have gotten. That will never be cliche! Do you sense a passion for this stuff? Just a little :)! Do yourself a favor.....don’t die without realizing the beauty in these things. “It’s the little things in life that bring the greatest pleasure, a smile a kiss, a little babies laughter” ( SRV ) Add to that “stunning wildlife photography” ( and landscapes ) goodnight![/quote

My sentiments exactly. Well and passionately said. But for some unfortunate people a camera is an indoor toy. They will never experience the absolute joy of being alone with a magnificent wild animal on a mountain at dawn. Pity them.

You have pretty high standards. Can you name a wildlife photographer whose work does impress you?

You're in the wrong section. Go to Astronomical Section. Nobody here knows what you are talking about.

This is a bunch of pseudo-scientific bafflegab which obfuscates what any photographer can figure out within one hour of getting a different camera with just a little experimentation.

Might be helpful if we knew where you are starting from.

The only time I look at the EXIF data is when someone is asking for help with a problem picture. It can help diagnose the problem and suggest corrective action.

http://www.davemorrowphotography.com/p/tutorial-shooting-night-sky.html

Well, right you are! Now that that's settled anybody interested in photography?

Its a 1949! See the link. The one in the video has a sun visor and rear fender skirts.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSMTIpaH1OI

Yes, there certainly are are some unkind remarks made on this site. Not all of them by men.

I agree most wholeheartedly. But I'm sure the primary party of whom you speak never reads anything except replies to his own posts.

No. Typo. I was thinking of the 17-35 f2.8D. Best wide zoom I ever used.

Exactly. Good bokeh enhances the image. This might be through enhancing the colour balance, contributing to the mood, or in some less definable way. Bad bokeh detracts by clashing with the mood, disturbing the colour balance, or distracting attention away from the subject. Good bokeh enhances; bad bokeh detracts and distracts.