Is it a broad range? hahaha Landscapes and close-ups if I really had to choose then.
Budget...no more than $600.
For $649 (with instant online rebate and free shipping), I suggest this kit:
Nikon | D40 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 18-55mm AF-S DX &
Nikon D40 body
18-55mm AF-S lens (auto focus, with motor in the lens)
55-200mm VR lens (vibration reduction)
I own a
lot of cameras in higher price ranges, but I find myself grabbing my simple d40 more than any other camera. First, it's extremely light weight and when walking around all day, it matters. When traveling, it matters. I'm very sad that they are phasing this camera out. I love it. Get it now before it's gone. And I don't own stock in Nikon, btw.
If you can afford to scrap the 2 lenses and get the 18-200mm lens, you should do that, but it's pricier. The 2 lenses are plastic lenses and they are very light, while the 18-200 is a bit heavier but it's all you need (but that lens alone is about $600). But the weight of it negates the lightweight of the d40.
If you just get the kit with the body and 18-55 lens for $450, that's ok and you can add more lenses later. But for me, I think longer lenses are so much better for portraits. I think you'd regret it if you didn't just get the kit with the longer lens. You'll probably use the longer one more often.
When buying the 55-200mm, make sure you pay the extra $50 and get the VR version. The longer the lens, the more susceptible to camera shake when not using a tripod. And tripods are for suckers. Hahaha, just kidding, but with digital, tripods are rarely needed anymore unless using a telephoto or crazy slow shutter speed or shooting mostly night shots. Monopods are better for anchoring, or just get yourself one of these bad boys:
Joby | Gorillapod SLR Flexible Mini-Tripod | GP201P | B&H Photo
Don't waste your money with a camera bag or other silly accessories that scream: mug me. Don't bother with the big yellow camera strap that comes with it either. Get one that's less conspicuous and more comfortable. I like this one for lighter cameras like the d40:
Tamrac | N-25 Neoprene Quick Release Strap (Black) | N2501 | B&H
Don't be an idiot and dangle the camera from your neck. Always sling it around your neck and shoulder - less stress on your neck and you can run with your camera without it hitting you in the face. For the love of all things holy, don't use a back pack either. You can't shoot if you have to stop and dig for your camera. Get a UV filter for your lens - they screw on to the end and protect your baby from rays outside and also from scratching (I never keep a lens cap on - too much fumbling). I like Tiffen filters the best, but you can get Hoya or whatever. Your lenses are size 52mm, so make sure you buy that size when getting filters.
Tiffen | 52mm UV Protector Glass Filter | 52UVP | B&H Photo
I think that's about it for now. Let me know if anything isn't clear to you. And let me know what you end up getting. Happy shooting!!