What Dig. Camera is best for beginners that want to go Pro?

A great professional digital camera for under $2000? There are plenty of options available for that much cash, my friend! A good digital SLR camera goes from $350 and up these days. Like Canon's Rebel brands, these are pretty good. My brother-in-law's got two different models and he's produced magazine-quality shots with them. Particularly, I've seen a Canon EOS Rebel XSi at work and while auto setting on this this camera's okay, when you've got the skills to manipulate its more detailed configurations (like using the tungsten setup under yellow or orange light - among many other things) - you're bound to get good shots that need little to no editing at all. It's got a good-size LCD screen to review your shots, it's got its own cleaning system so you don't have to worry about dust and it's got everything else a good starting digital SLR should have! I think it's around $600 now... hey, that means you could get another SLR too! :D

I would go with either a Nikon DSLR or a Canon DSLR. Most professional photographers use those brands. I personally prefer Nikon, but Canon is also a good choice. If you're really interested in freelance photography, I would recommend picking up a copy of this book http://www.amazon.com/Photographers-Market-Editors-Writers-Digest/dp/1582975469/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1226096683&sr=8-1 The book lists magazines, publishing companies, stock agencies, greeting card companies, book publishers, etc. that accept submissions from freelance photographers. It also includes specific details on how to submit your photos- where to send them, what format to send them in, etc. It also includes other helpful resources such as photo competitions, gallery exhibitions, as well as information on photography schools and workshops. It also includes stories and helpful tips from photographers who have started their own businesses. It is a great asset for any freelance photographer- whether you're just starting out or if you've been doing it for decades!