I know this might be a pretty broad question but I need some advice. I am considering several cameras: DX-1G, Nikon D90 or the Nikon D300. I do a fair amount of topside photography - I've got a friend who is a professional photographer to help with basic photo pointers but he isnt familiar with UW photos so wont really comment. I havent done any underwater pics myself so I really need some help. I am planning a dive trip to North Carolina in May & Sulawesi in October. I would like to get a camera to "practice" with in May. I know the D90 has video which might be nice but I like the quality of the D300. Unfortunately, I've got more of a beer budget than a Nikon budget! Would it be a good choice to start with the DX, use it for a while then move up? I might be able to get the D300/90 by Oct but I definitely cant get everything to go with it. Bottomline is: I REALLY want to be able to get some good pics in Sulawesi!!

Thanks for any help!
Kathy