Alright, I need input

[William_Robinette]

Hey guys, here is the deal...

I need to buy a digi cam for my college classes. Not photography courses, but I need to take pictures of sculptures and objects I make (majoring in film but required to do one year of art, sucks). Now I could get by fine with a P&S cam, and if I did I would go with this one (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7687988&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat99100050023&id=1134704190122) and call it a day.

One the flip side, I have been into photography for years and appreciate a good camera. I have been shooting with a fairly old Nikon 35mm that takes great pictures, but I want digital. I would get, without a doubt, a D50 with the kit lens (which right now I can pick up for $600). Including the lenses I have for my 35mm, I would have a good, wide-range set of glass already. Basically off to a great start.

I guess the question is, do I get the P&S and live with that, and get the D50 later, or do I go with the D50 now?

[CR_OPSO]

I can say without a doubt... if you can afford it, buy the D-SLR. I just wish I had bought mine sooner.

I own a Canon, but since you have lenses already, Nikon is the way to go. It's not hard to see that the D50 is very popular here (and elsewhere).

Chad