I currently have a D7000 and a D700.
I amn waiting for the D4 to drive down the price of the D3s (new or used) for the high ISO low noise capability.

Thanks to all for your comments. They are quite helpful.

Regarding the ladies on the bench. Candids of personal interaction is one of my favorite types of photographs.
As per suggestiions and comments I lightened the upper background. Also I used Curves in photoshop to brighten the midtones. Also incresased saturation slightly and upped the vibrance.
I hesitate to use flash when taking candid photos.

To see the result of all this go to my flikr page and look at item 0302. My flikr screen name is wdsb.

Regardng the bird. I did use the rule of thirds on this but perhaps I should of put him on the left side.

Forest scene.
I agree with the comments. This photograph needs a point of interest. The comments about human 3-d vision and photographs in 2-d explains why what I saw did not translate. Also explains why a point of interest, or a leading line, is needed in landscape shots.

Thanks again for all your help.
If you wish to look I have about 380 photos on my flikr page. screen name wdsb

I have been taking snapshots for years. May 2010 I got a D5000. I now use a D7000 and a D700. Here are four examples. Let me know what you think critiscm on technique and content welcome.