need some advice.

[Kayaker72]

It will be interesting to see what others think, but I'd be tempted to start by purchasing the EOS-M, likely in a kit with the EF-M 18-55 lens (it is a bit less expensive than the 22 f/2 kit). This is currently under your budget (please note, you support this site by clicking the amazon or adorama link before making your purchase). But, eventually, I would think you would want to add the EF adaptor and a macro lens, such as the EFS 60 mm. That will eventually set you back another $600 (at current prices), but you'll be able to take some excellent pictures. You may also want to eventually think about lighting (the shot above may benefit from more side lighting) but you can accomplish that for now with lamps, etc.

[LSCG]

It will be interesting to see what others think, but I'd be tempted to start by purchasing the EOS-M, likely in a kit with the EF-M 18-55 lens (it is a bit less expensive than the 22 f/2 kit). This is currently under your budget (please note, you support this site by clicking the amazon or adorama link before making your purchase). But, eventually, I would think you would want to add the EF adaptor and a macro lens, such as the EFS 60 mm. That will eventually set you back another $600 (at current prices), but you'll be able to take some excellent pictures. You may also want to eventually think about lighting (the shot above may benefit from more side lighting) but you can accomplish that for now with lamps, etc.

many thanks Kayaker! i'll start looking at the EOS-M and see if I can try one out at a store, and thanks for the tip about the lighting!

Zane.