Recommended camera ideas?

Okay so I have this new passion for photography and I'm looking into buying a "professional" camera, but I do not want it it be more thank 1000 dollars. I also say this really cute mini Nikon? Camera at Costco if anyone has some more info on that I would love it thanks!

Before I say anything remember that the camera never replaces the photographer.

Well it depends on your current knowledge of photography. If you are new to photography, you do it as a hobby but you have little to no knowledge about exposure and composition and how to manipulate them. Simply buy a regular point-and shoot. Nikon and cannon make pretty nice ones that an be used by anyone.
If you are familiar with the basics of exposure and composition but you are doing this as a hobby, I suggest getting an advanced-point and shoot. Best buy sells pretty nice ones and usually they will have someone who knows their products well enough to recommend you one.
If you are comfortable with exposure and composition, you know how to manipulate them well and you are thinking of taking your passion to the next level, a DSLR is for you. I recommend a cannon or a Nikon. I'm love nature photography and I use a Nikon D60. Not the newest model but it works well.

Answer mine?

Are you serious about photography or just looking for snaps? That's important to know because if you're serious then I'll recommend the Canon t3i or t4i - I saw the 4 for $750 today with a lens.

If snaps is all you want then buy cheaper - a pocket toy works well for snaps.

As to that mini Nikon, I suspect you saw their EVIL camera. These are way over priced and way over rated pocket toys with no view finder that just happen to change lenses. Most pros and semi pros run from EVIL cameras and stick with dslr cameras.

So you decide if you're serious or not then buy.