another dslr noob...

Lenses are the key to taking macro and tilt-shift shots. Unfortunately, macro lenses are around $500+, and tilt-shift lenses are $1500-2000+ (although apparently the same effect can be achieved with Photoshop, as per your link).

"Everyday" shots can be taken just fine with the kit lens.

The camera doesn't matter.

El Cabong said:

Lenses are the key to taking macro and tilt-shift shots. Unfortunately, macro lenses are around $500+, and tilt-shift lenses are $1500-2000+ (although apparently the same effect can be achieved with Photoshop, as per your link).

Click to expand...

This is very true. I tried the tilt-shift effect in Photoshop once, but failed epically . Will give it another try though once I get time again to take pictures (school...).
As for the macro, dedicated lenses are quite expensive, but you can also look into extension tubes which are around $100 and can be used on any lens.

You need to either edit your budget or expectations. The closest you will come will be a used body and kit lens and a 50mm f/1.8 for your shallow depth of field stuff. Personally, if I was buying canon, I would buy a used 20D (~250), 18-55 IS (~100) and 50 1.8 (~100). If nikons feel better in your hand, you are probably good with a d40 and appropriate lenses.

Forget tilt-shift for now, as others have said, you need triple the money to start down that road.

That snail shot is not really a macro shot, you could probably shoot that with a normal lens (possibly with some cropping in a computer afterwards).

Bodies depreciate like crazy, buy used and free up more money for other parts of your kit (like flash, tripod, bag, lenses, etc.).

Buy a basic kit now, determine what works for you and what shots you want, but can't get with the gear you own. Try taking 1000 shots with whatever you buy initially. Then as budget allows, buy things that will help you get the shots you want and cannot get.

D40's three AF points might pose some problems for shallow depth of field. Furthermore, while 35mm is a great lens, it is also known for barrel distortion. D3000 ($465) with AF-S 50mm ($440) is a better Nikon-based solution .

Alternative would be Canon XSi ($560) or XS ($500) with 50mm f/1.8 II ($110).

The 35mm should be just fine for shallow DOF.

A macro lens will be a little over your budget but if you really like the shallow depth of field check out a 50mm 1.4 lens. These will give you a great depth of field and be pretty reasonable. Not sure on the exact pricing for Nikon but my canon 50mm ran about $300.