Much appreciate the responses. There is a very active camera club in my area that I plan to join and then see first hand cameras and discuss also.
All good advice here, especially about renting a lens first. I know the mirrorless cameras are becoming popular with DSLRs on the decline, but having had the DSLR, guess it is just the "age" thing and what I have been use to using.
I really appreciate the responses (and photos). I have basically decided on the D500, but will not rethink the telephoto lens I suggested. Here and elsewhere, a super zoom doesn't seem to be recommended, so I will have to look at the options suggested, plus consider the weight (and price!!). Though this camera may not be optimal for landscapes, I have seen some darn good pictures, with the appropriate landscape lens as well as closeups. That may be an add-on later.
[quote=amfoto1]First let's talk cameras....
That is a lot of info. I did use the Camera Decision website in comparing the cameras. Good point about duplicating focal points too. I do realize there are much longer lenses, but they also get quite large. I will relook at the telephoto lenses. Thanks.
Thanks all for the comments. I will relook at my telephoto lens choices.
I have been doing a fair amount of research on these two camera options since last year as well as taking online courses at Digital Photography School. For my interest in all things nature and wildlife (including close-ups), I am leaning toward the D500 vice the D7500. I like the faster autofocus and from my research, the D500 is possibly a good all-around camera for landscapes, etc. The D500 is heavier than the D80, but it is what it is. Using the D80 for some of the class assignments (18-135mm) lens has been a bit limiting at times. The plus with either of these two new camera options, my current 18-135mm lens will still work. For a telephoto lens, I am looking at the Tamron 18-400mm for wildlife shooting. Any opinions one way or the other between the D500 and D7500? Also, for a landscape lens, is there one I should consider adding later in lieu of the 18-135mm lens I currently have?