Photography

So the photographer that I LOVE just went up in price... :( Bye-bye fun mini sessions... bye-bye fun photo outings... :(  I will not go back to JCP! So I was thinking I'd take matters into my own hands and try to take photos myself.  This means I will have to upgrade my current camera because it takes sooooo long to take a picture I often miss the cute expression on my girl's faces. I can't afford a Nikon or a Cannon Rebel like SOME people!  Any other suggestions out there??