Being a photographer my self, I guess I could say a few things...
Dont worry too much about a kick ass camera. Get lighting and maybe read a few books on how to light a model. Also, like they were saying above... Get a model that wants to be there. It might help if there were some nice backdrops. But a $29 p/night hotel room wont make any one smile too much. Rent a studio next time. They usually have lights that you can use.
However, if your going for the "my boyfriend shot these pics" look, you have nailed it.
There are photographers and GWC's (guys with camera's)
Hope that wasn't too harsh. Just telling it like it is.
