Actually I've been doing photography a long long time (since high school!). I now teach it at Wilmington University in Delaware. Primarily computers but also the occasional photography course. My cameras are pro models but that is absolutely not necessary to produce outstanding photos. Any of the Nikon, Canon, Minolta or other consumer SLR cameras will do an excellent job. Some of the better point-n-shoots will also do excellent work. For a SLR just look for one that is two or three models old and comes with a kit lens.
If you're interested here is my web site;
www.mturnbo.com . I'm not a professional. Just for do it for the fun and in conjunction with my teaching. My main interest in bird photography.