The Nikon F4 is the last of the legendary Nikon F pro cameras to use dials and knobs instead of buttons and menus! This makes it one of the most intuitive advanced cameras ever made. While it works with newer autofocus (AF-S) lens, focusing isn't as fast as on more recent cameras (and VR doesn't function); however, no other Nikon F series body offers such complete support of older manual Nikkors.

Here's another favorite of mine: the Nikon FM2, which often was used as a backup body by pros and had a reputation for reliability and durability. It featured a top shutter speed of an unprecedented 1/4000th second, and is operable without batteries (minus the exposure meter).

At a price point of under $100, this is an incredible value for a starter camera loaded with advanced features, plus support for the latest AF-S and VR lenses. Highly recommended if you're a beginner but want something to grow with, or desire a competent, very light and compact camera for travel.

This classic nikkor stays fixed at f2.8 its entire zoom range and is exceptionally sharp. A bargain on the used market. This lens, plus the two that follow, use to be in every Pro's camera bag in the film days, and produced many exceptional photos.

This zoom is razor sharp across the zoom range, including wide open, plus is built like a tank. Also works great with the superb 1.4x Nikon teleconverter for even more versatility. This is one of Nikon's sharpest lenses of all times.

"Give your 80-200mm f2.8 zoom a 1.4x focal length increase (to 280mm) without noticeable image degradation. A lower-cost alternative that is reportedly very sharp is the Kenko PRO 1.4x teleconverter."

Here's the scanner to get for Nikon quality digital scans of your slides and negatives. Now you have the best of both worlds -- film and digital. Accepts an optional 50-slide feeder and an optional roll film adapter for mass conversion.