The software is basically all the same, so that removes a couple of the concerns(Lightroom, Photoshop, etc... the basics...). I'd suggest getting a Mac because they run a little smoother and easier workflow-wise, but a PC will also work fine if that's all you have.
Stuff to spend money on:
- Epson and Canon make pretty much the only large format printers that I know of that are reasonably affordable. Get a good large format inkjet printer and half of your battle is completed. Software and a printer is essentially the equivalent of film's photo lab in your basement(just way less space and stink involved) note - ink cost is the killer here, so shop carefully. Expect to spend several thousand on a nice model.
- Modern digital has to be thought of backwards, because over time you'll keep the lenses and the body will change. For MF, you will be changing the digital backs every few years or so, and for a DSLR, the entire body. At the sizes that you are printing at, you'll never see the difference between a DB and a DSLR. Since your current and future requirements for the next 5-10 years can be met with *any* 20-25MP sensor, it's a no-brainer to stick with the much cheaper option of swapping cheaper DLSR bodies every few years. 20+MP may seem overkill now, but it will save you an upgrade or two later on.
- That said, the ability to use lenses for a long time is important, so that means a full-frame camera that can also use older lenses as well. Remember that there are plenty of used lenses out there as well and also non OEM lenses as well, which sometimes have a few gems in them that are equal to or better than the OEM offerings. Full-frame is non-negotiable for any serious photographer.
- That leaves you with a choice between Canon, Nikon, and Sony/Minolta. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. In your case, you want smaller and lighter. Most DSLRs weigh about 1.5-2lbs, plus the lens. That's not a lot different than the weight of old 35mm cameraa. They were smaller, but mostly metal, while the new replacements are plastic and larger. If you want truly tiny, you're kind of out of luck. Leica can be an option here, but it's really a dead-end for professional work or will be in a few years as the next generation of bodies come out.
Here are your two main choices:
1:
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controll...p;modelid=17662The Canon 5D II - 21MP and a reasonably sized body. $2500 and quite decent. 28 ounces for the body.
2: The Sony/Minolta A850. 24MP and 31 ounces for the body. $2000.
Nikon would be choice #3, but they offer nothing in a normal DSLR sized package that's in the 20MP+ range. The D3x for instance, is a whopping 43 ounces. No good for your intended use. Too expensive, and too large.
