I use Epson metallic paper. I find it wonderful and not too expensive. I bought it from B+H.
I moved from the 7100 to the 610 and am very happy with it.
I use the 50mm 1.8G with great results.
I suggest you go for the Nikon 50mm f/1.8 G lens. It's a little more $$ but generally acknowledged as a better lens that the "D". I have one and I love it for all around shooting.
I use the Nikor Micro 105mm f/2.8 and am happy with the results. If cost is an issue, consider the non-VR version.
You are very kind. I use Dynamic Auto-Paint. It is very flexible and offers a huge number of artists styles to play with. I have attached another. This is the lighthouse north of Rochester where the Genesee River empties into Lake Ontario. Hope you enjoy. In this effort I used only a minimal application of the software.
A member recently posted an "impressionistic" photograph which had been successfully processed to resemble an impressionistic painting. I have used some interesting software, since I don't have the talent of that individual, to explore similar possibilities. Do others have any interest or experience in this area?
Very nice. You might enjoy playing around with Dynamic Auto-Paint. This can be overdone, but it is possible to create very interesting faux-painted images. I'll try to post an example which received local plaudits.
I've been using my Epson Photo R1900 for four years with constantly great results. Strongly consider Epson photo printer. Avoid all in one.
some say that refurbished is better than new ...
I have a 105mm f2.8 without VR used and I love it. Somewhere between $250 and $300 used.
I use Nikon Transfer which I believe you can download from the Nikon website. It's free and works great.
I recently acquired an AF MICRO NIKKOR 105mm 1:2.8 D on ebay for under $300 and am very happy with it. You have the option of being further from your subject that with the 60mm for often little more $$. I am shooting with a D7100.
We have employed a local photographer who does the hand coloring some years ago ... I assume she is still doing it in Rochester, NY.