Your the ranting and raving practice what you preach!
the d7000 also has a focusing motor in the body the d5100 does not so you have the option of using d series lenses with 100% compatability with the d7000. the are some incredible deal on d series pro glass for example i just purchased a 80 to 200 2.8 d series lens which buy the is still made to this day my lenns in like new condition cost 1000.00 dollars a new 70 to 200 mm 2.8 afs lens is priced at 2299.00 dollars the d5100 has no focus motor in the body and will require the more expensive afs lens and the d7000 has the 2012 pixel RGB color sensor even the d3s at 7900.00 bucks only has the 1008 pixel sensor so you can see there is quite a difference between the 7000 and the 5100
true there is no substitute for good lenses, i would rather have a 10 megapixel camera with great lenses than 18 megapixels with a crappy lens
I agree with you on that what ever brand of gear people choose i just like to see people get the most for their investment as well as the right equipment for them self
You keep using the word elitist and yet you talk about the d800 which will be around 3000.00 dollars or so and the person asking for the advice clearly stated there budget was 1500.00 dollars. sounds like your the elitist
Define what you mean by elitist
I have to agree the d7000 is the way to go i bought one 3 months ago and it is fast very responsive and image quality is top notch. i bought mine with 50 mm 1.8 g lens which is tack sharp. you might consider going with a prime lens such as 50 mm 1.8 or 35mm 1.8 these prime lenses are going to put the kit zoom lenses to shame i got mine at b&h photo 1439.00 out the door no tax and free shipping.
Keh camera is a great source for new and used if its photography related they probably have. also they sell all brands and offer an iron clad 6 month warranty on all used equipment. ive dealt with them for 20 plus years with out a problem. they can be reached at 1-770-333-4200 or keh .com
Hi donna would recommend the d7000 try to get a camera with a focusing motor built into the body it gives you more flexability when choosing lenses.all the d series lenses work perfectly for example i just bought a 80 to 200 2.8 afd lens for 1100 dollars the 70 to 200 afs lens is 2300 dollars