I'd go for something like the Canon 550D with the kit lens (for wide shots), plus a macro lens, and normal lens for portraits with subject isolation (blurry background).

• Canon EOS 550D Lens Kit (EF-S 18-55mm IS) £509.99
• Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II £86.89
• Canon EF-S 60mm f2.8 Macro USM £339.00

Total: £936

I'd go for something like the Canon 550D with the kit lens (for wide shots), plus a macro lens, and normal lens.

• Canon EOS 550D Lens Kit (EF-S 18-55mm IS) £509.99
• Canon EF-S 60mm f2.8 Macro USM £339.00
• Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II £86.89

Total: £936

The 550D is lightweight and easy to use. I've picked Canon based on their fine 60mm macro lens, which doesn't have an equal at the price on any other system. Macro means it focusses really close, so you can shoot objects as small as 2cm. It will also take razor sharp portraits.

The 50mm lens is included for low light work, subject isolation (shots with a blurry background) and because it's exceptional value for the price.