Nikon D200 with Nikon 105mm Micro Mikkor (macro lens) with either Nikon R1C1 Macro speedlight or Sigma Ringflash (for Nikon)

I have used this camera for the last 2-3 years and it has been one of the best cameras I have used in 40 years of photography. the D300 would be a good upgrade and is in a reasonable price range for someone serious about photography. I use an 18-200mm zoom for general photos. (see kenrockwell.com for useful comparisons of Nikons)

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is a recent acquistion. Rather pricey but it does a nice job of macro with the 100mm lens (EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM) and Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX. Do you need the 21 megapixels - no - anything over 6Mp seems fine unless you want very large prints. If you want to crop down and still have good resolution the Canon does a nice job.

Mostly I photograph heads and eyes and both the Ninon and Canon do an excellent job.

Nick Millichamp