Not sure what to do? please help!

Do you go off paved or otherwise prepared trails? If not, a rolling bag might be a help. Even if you do, a dolly with large wheels would help unless you're going over really uneven ground. And for a body and a couple of lenses, like a macro and a 70-200 zoom, a waist pack would do well. I use (when I'm hiking) a Domke-branded one that was made by Kata. They're quite comfortable.

I shoot birds and gardens mostly, so yeah it's pretty uneven. I just bought a domke f-6 (I think), something small and light, and so far I like it. most of the time when we go out my wonderful husband will help and carry the bag. I had a small waist bag (too small to hold the 200) this one I just bought has a little strap that I think can go around the waist. I don't think it'll be too comfy, but it's so light it doesn't really bother my shoulders or neck. Normally when I go out to shoot I only have a light wider prime and the 200, now it'll be the macro. I don't have my 24 any more and am thinking of getting the 20 instead or getting another 24. So i really don't need it to hold much weight. I just need something that doesn't look like a camera bag so I can bring it everywhere. Most days I just have the camera and one lens, so I only need it to carry it in the car.

Jon what is the number of your waist pack? I looked at the kata 92 (I think that's the number) and it looked too bulky. When I shoot I tend to get on the ground and on my stomach a lot and something bulky gets in the way.

The one thing I'm worried about is my husband band is playing a rather large gig next week (opening for a national act!!) and I want to get great shots, so the bag may be heavy, but it's only an hour and the drummer is driving not me so pain medications will help!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this, but I applaud your attitude! I also hear (read) your frustration at what's happening.

Of course you're frustrated, life changed the rules on you. But you're going to be fine, you're looking for solutions and asking the 'experts.' If anyone can give you the advice, it's this forum.

I am recently back into photography after the 20 year hiatus to work. I started with the Rebel XTi and while I've almost outgrown it, I have enjoyed learning digital photography with it. But with your range of motion and the weight, it may still be too much.

You might look at the Canon Power Shot A series. http://www.usa.canon.c​om …tIndexAct&fcate​goryid=113

They actually have lenses to add! My husband had purchased an A75 many moons ago and it served it's purpose. Great pictures, a lot of capability, the live view that would be helpful. They are kind of cute, though I don't think you can get involved in some of the lens discussions!

Good luck, keep up your great attitude, and we'll find you a solution!

My first digial camera (I didn't keep it long because I thought it wasn't enough for what I wanted) was the A610. Now after trying other P&S I wish I just kept it as something to grab quick because it really out-performed all the other P&S I've used. It would be great to throw it in my bag when I didn't want to lug the heavier stuff around. Now to buy one it's WAY too much money. I saw one for $600! Used they're OK, but due to their age I'd be worried about how many shots have been taken with it.

I'd check out this one:
http://www.amazon.com …Stabilized/dp/B​000V20R28/

or this one:
http://www.amazon.com …Stabilized/dp/B​000V1VG2E/

Both have Tv, Av, and manual modes.

The closest thing to my Domke/kata's the Kata Waistpack W-92. You could also look at Lowepro's or ThinkTank's belt-carried lens pouches or, if you don't worry about the padding, Domke's F-901, F-902 and F-945 pouches.