If you want to save money get a older dslr like a canon 350d or a older nikon. You could probably get a 350d for $150ish with a kit lens. Any dslr will take good pictures so just get the best you can afford.
I use a Nikon d40 for photographing my fish friends. It takes some excellent pics. I also use an overhead flash to help disperse the light which makes a huge difference.
My Canon digital Rebel is almost 10 yrs old and still takes some pretty fair pics, it seems to me the lens and light are key to taking pics, and those can be added and upgraded later as experience grows.
I am told Nikon takes a less digital appearing picture, with more warmth.
This was one of my first shots.
year later
With an inexpensive macro- ring added