I am about ready, after much consideration, to pruchase a D90.

Currently, I am a bit overwhelmed by lens choices. Landscapes and macros are my favorites but also would like to be able to "reach out and touch" someone once in a while. I have read the Tokina 11-16 f/2.8 is one of the best wide-angle lenses and matches the "twice the cost" Nikon lens, is this true? Unfrotunately, all the dealers I have researched are on back order, so that tells me there is some truth to the quality of the lens. Secondly, the "kit" lens that comes standard with the D90 (other cameras as well) seem to be an 18-135mm or 18-105mm. It has always been my experience that "kit" lenses are just something thrown in as an incentive and are not what one would consider a quality lens, is this correct? Are they worth having or should one purchase the body only and buy specialty lenses? I am semi-retired and currently living in a small town in Tahiland and am seriously considering photography as my form of relaxation, boredom buster and diary of the last years of my life so I don't have time to "try" things out. I have a few bucks and would rather spend them wisely than go through a long, painful, frustrating and expensive learning curve. I have worked as an engineer for many years and am willing to take the time to properly learn every aspect of the camera and lenses but would really appreciate some honest PROFESSIONAL help here. Thank you and God Bless

Aditya, thank you for responding to my question. Well....as of yesterday I am a new owner of a Nikon D90 body with two separately purchased lenses; 18-200mm and a 12-24mm F/4, both highly recommended by Ken Rockwell, a writer I find to be quite honest and helpful as well. I looked at the Macros, which I do want as well, but might hold off a bit until I get used to what the camera can do with what I have now. It came with a fairly decent manual but I am sure there are other publications out there that can cut to the chase so I don't have to run around the block to get across the street, any ideas? Anway, thanks again........

Well, I mean you can read hundreds of things on how to take a better photo, but these can only help to a certain extent, more tips and tricks if you will. Honestly, your best bet is probably to familiarize yourself, if you haven't already, with the controls, and the functions of the ISO, Aperture, Shutter Speed, Exposure, and FStops (I might be missing a couple things, but this is mostly what comes to mind). Once you know what each of these does, then go out and start experimenting in different settings, different times, and with different subjects (people, landscape, animals, etc). Google is probably your best friend in learning the basics, and even tips and tricks, there are hundreds of sites by hundreds of photographers, amateurs to professionals. I'm not really sure what else to advise you of as of now, but if you have any more questions feel free to ask. Congrats on your new camera.

Ken rockwell usually posts some good manuals on his site.