I've been shooting professionally for thirty years and I got a laugh out of the Hasselblad and Leica mention, are you a physician? Anyway, if your wife is a beginner, I'd suggest buying a clean used camera and lens, the brand isn't to important as long as it's one of the top brands. I'd stay away from the third party lenses and the variable aperture variations. Although, I am impressed with my Sigma 35/1.4 but there are exceptions to every rule. Also, a solid tripod will be your most important purchase and I've purchased both of mine used and they've served me well.
Knowledge wise, I'd check out fredmiranda.com, fstoppers and photography-on-the.net/forum/ for more information, I am on those the most.
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