since she is only 8. I would buy her P&S camera. Let her have fun. If she really like taking images, after a few years I would look into a upgrade.
If you are happy with DX series than upgrade to the Nikon D7100.
the Nikon D7100 is a great camera. I think its the top of the line in Nikon DX series.
You can't go wrong with Nikon. But I'm a Nikon person. Also with this model their are lots of used lenses around.
their two ways one filter at the largest mm and step-down (variable or step of three. Or Cokin P series, you can get a set of adapter rings and holder.
In the Boston area there must be good camera stores. Take her there and let the salesperson help.
Don't go to a chain store. All they know is the prices and not photography.
Good luck.
Always buy the best glass. You will buy other bodies but these lenses will last a lifetime.
As for the 14-24mm f/2.8 AF FX will be 21-36mm f/2.8 on a dx body
24-70mm f/2.8 AF FX will be 36-105mm f/2.8 on a dx body
70-200mm f/2.8 AF FX will be 105-300mm f/2.8 on a dx body
The f/2.8 lenses are pro lenses and the quality is the best Nikon makes. Also you can look into Sigma pro lenses.
I would try to stay with Nikon. You can also buy use lenses from Adarama or B & H. These are are the only two stores I personal buy from.
For my first choice would be 24-70mm f/2.8 Its a great everyday lens
next choice would be what type photography interests you the most
My second choice (for me) 70-200mm f/2.8
My third choice 14-24mm f/2.8
It also depends on your budget
Like Tramsey refurb is a better choice. But upgrade to the D7000 series.
A camera is a camera. I belong to a few camera clubs in southeast Florida.
Their people using mostly Nikon and Canon. That said some people use Canon G-12 and Nikon P7000? or other P&S.
Others use other brands. The end result is the image.
I would call Nikon and ask for someone higher up in the chain. Keep doing this until you get the results.
I think if you told them you would like to upgrade to D800, they might help. Which is a great camera.
I recently bought my Nikon D800 from Adarama. It is a great camera. No problems.
Look at the reviews of other refurbished buyers. Adarama has a list of people who purchased refurbished bodies and others items
you see without a doubt they agree it was a great buy.
This is the my first time I bought refurb. I would do it again
I'm not a employee or an ad person for Adarama. When I lived in Brooklyn I purchased my equipment from them. They stand by their products (so does B & H)
When taking wedding pictures outdoors. Try to poses the bride with side light with a little fill light. (in this case front light is ok, but get the flash off the HOT SHOE) The closer the flash to the lens will cause red eyes. Use a flash bracket.
Can't give exposure, it depends on the light.
Also use backlighting for a few shots.
The same advise of side light for other formals. Be careful of the background.
Remember expressions, lighting and posing are the most important things.
If you have any more questions about wedding photography (I'll try to help). From an old timer (FILM)
Floridamet
Esther is right on. If you muse front light it becomes very flat. You will loss all detail.
What I did in the past (before digital) my light person would hold the main light (not by the camera)
My radio control would fire both lights. The one on the camera was the fill lights.
This way you had shadow for shape.
you paid for his/her service and nothing more. If you want the file expect to pay.
You never own the negative/files. They belong to the photographer. As I said before find an amateur at a local camera store or a camera club. they might do it for the experience.
But you get what you are paying. No or little experience. Also remember that pro knows what to shoot, good lighting, good posing and fast. Also you will enjoy the day.