The Nikon series of cameras, D40-D80, give the eprformance of a lifetime.  The optics are the best that one can buy at a retail establishment.  It is clearly professional grade.  The 15-55 lens does most thigns that I need, but by adding a 300 mm zoom lens I am able to capture magazine quality images of wildlife.  The regular lens gives impeccable landscape images.  The camera body is shaped for easy holding.,  This is critical if one is spending 4-5 hours in a photo shoot or waiting for the right momemnt to capture wildlife.