Everyone, thank you so much for your advice! It's wonderful to get this much feedback, especially since I'm committing a significant amount of money to this venture.
Originally Posted by Sean Setters
The latter, and mainly for indoor shots. I think you're absolutely right that I need to correct or modify some of my technique, but I have a feeling it's a bit gear-related as well. I love that warm, ambient look of gentle sunlight surrounding my subjects without having to recreate that effect with software. I've gotten some good results with my flash bounced and diffused, but it just never feels as good. Nonetheless, I'm going to do a lot more research into this, especially with my planned new gear. []
Originally Posted by HDNitehawk
Thanks for the sage advice. I'm going to take your and neuroanatomist's advice and look into a Hi-Def upgrade to my Panasonic PV-GS500. I think it's sad that Canon did not include AF on the video function - I guess they did not want to cannibalize their video camera line too much.
Originally Posted by Kayaker72
No, I think I'm going to keep it and either see how it fares with a new lens or allow my 6-year old to grow into it. He seems to have a good eye for composition.
Originally Posted by neuroanatomist
John, thank you for your very detailed reply! You nailed my exact sentiment on the XTi+Tamron combination. Your overall recommendation feels well balanced across the varied replies to my question, so I'm heading out to Best Buy to pick up a 60D and probably settle for a refurbished Canon 85mm f/1.8 (they have one in stock for $335.99). I'll let everyone know how things progress, especially with the 60D+Tamron combination as well. This should hold me over until next year's allowance...
Originally Posted by Roland Scheiner
My sentiment precisely! Even if my wife gets a kick out of my frequent bright and over-saturated results. [:$]
Again, thank you to everyone who replied. I truly appreciate your help.