I know that's a wide open question, but isn't there truth that certain lenses work better with different bodies ? What would you recommend for general macro shooting?
Just a small remark Paul: The following statement, "(to achieve 1:1 it needs a 5T/6T filter - unless you have a D2x) " is incorrect. I take it you mean going to HSC mode with the D2X wll give "more" magnification, but of course that is not true. You get a tighter cropped area but details are rendered identical in size. Magnification is a scale, not an absolute quantity and is independent of the imaged format. I share your enthusiasm for the 70-180, a shame Nikon has discontinued it.
A thought. Getting back to basics...consider a used 55.2.8 micro. Add a set of extension tubes and you have a killer cheap combo if you are just getting your feet wet. With it you can do things most macro guys can't. Here(lower) is 1:1 of a tiny 1.5 cm bug...nothing special. The upper shot is about 4x I think. Did you know bugs have fur until now??? One last thought, auto focus is a nuisance for macro more often than a help unless your critters are mobile. D2X 1 second, f15 D2X 1.5 seconds, f32
