lights, CAMERA... action.

Funny you should mention that you want a new camera because I have been slowly looking around for one myself. I have the same Sony camera you do and I agree good camera but... you are SO right about that money shot. I get frustrated not being able to completely contol the apertures and shutter speed. It is one of those "idiot proof" cameras as my mom says. so... on a quest to for a little advanced refinement here is the camera that I am lusting after:
You can check ot this Canon rebel on their website. I have some saving to do for this one.