All,
I'm glad I have found this collection of kindred spirits.
I am making my living being 100 percent freelance and part of that is working as a journalist for a small, hyperlocal weekly newspaper. I write news stories and take photos. I am also a long-time member of the National Press Photographers Association, but I do not have the advantage of being funded by a large news organization so I buy gear out of my own budget.
I'm looking, with anticipation, at upgrading to the Nikon "D7300" when it gets released.
Right now, and because of it's 1080p HD video nuance, I'm using a Canon T4i -- bought new in 2012. I defected from Nikon for a while because I needed a lock-down 2nd camera for shooting full HD video gigs to go with my "real" video camera. I miss using my Nikon glass and want to invest in a new DX body that meets my needs. A tilt/articulating screen is needed because I constantly use this feature to shoot both stills and video with DSLRs.
Also, I refuse to spend $$$$ on pro-level bodies of any manufacturer's flavor in the digital since I already went that route in the film era with Nikon Fs, etc. I believe the shooter makes the image and not the specific camera body. With this said, my current Nikon D5000 is too small regarding MP for many of my freelance needs and it is not a viable 2nd camera for video. This is the major reason why I'm looking to upgrade within my budget.
Best,
Deb
Debbie Wolfe
St. Petersburg, Florida USA