If you have the money invest in some Pocket Wizards. Pocket Wizard Flex Transceiver TT5 and Pocket Wizard Mini TT1 Transmitter for Nikon. There is also an AC3 Zone Controller which attach to the Mini TT1. This is a good investment.
Really Right Stuff has a great Monopod, rated at 50lbs Max weight. Also they have an adjustable head for their monopod.
No it is real. They are having snake hunts right now with a prize for the biggest snake. Goggle Florida for their snake problem.
Watch out also for the big snakes.
Take a look at Really Right Stuff, they make great tripods, ball heads, and Gimbal.
For travel I use the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4 (4 section). There is also a 3 section, 055CXPRO3. This tripod can hold a Max of 17.6 lbs. It is very light and you also get a carrying handle for it. Also it closes down to fit in a carry-on bag. I fit it with the Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head it is rated for 50lbs, it also pans, and it slotted to point your lens up or down. Really Right Stuff has other ball head smaller with this one with the same quality. You get quick release or screw release.
I use LightRoom 4 for tethering, works great.
I used the 500D and I liked the results.
The only differences between a MAC and a PC.
1. Price
2. Security
3. MAC OS is a little more stable
They both use Intel chips, the screens are made by the same people(there are only 3 manufactures of computer screens), most all other components are made by the same people.