Hi, my name is Carrie and I'm looking to upgrade from my Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ-10 to a Nikon D70. I have a Nikon 35mm already (rarely use it anymore) and am partial to the brand.

I travel quite a bit and my favorite destination is Alaska. I went in June and was disappointed in my outdated Panasonic camera which has since developed a mold growing inside the lens. Instead of spending the money to have it cleaned, I'd rather put it towards a new, more challenging camera.

I'm particularly interested in pet portraits, especially of newborn puppies...we are expecting some in late Jan/early Feb. I'm not sure what lens would be appropriate, I've heard a 50mm is good for indoor shots. I'm determined to learn about photography.

My question is this...what do you think of a camera that was a display/model that is sold at a reduced price, but that comes with a warranty and guarantee to be in perfect working order? It was not previously owned or used, just on display. Is it better to just go brand new?

I'll try to post a picture I took of my cocker spaniel in the pet portraits section. Photography has been a hobby of mine for a while now, but I have little training and am very green when it comes to the mechanics of it all. I took a class once, years ago and plan to take another one this coming spring.

Looking forward to chatting about photography with everyone!

Thanks,
Carrie