Suggestions for a new video camera?

I've been directing/shooting/editing videos for about a year now (mostly music videos) and I'm looking to upgrade. I currently use a Nikon D3100 to shoot videos, it shoots in 1080p HD 24fps. I've recently noticed that my skills in video are growing, I know a few people who go to school for video production and I usually find that my videos are better made than theirs, even with out prior education in this field. I'm starting to get the feeling that I have a shot at making a career out of this and I'm looking to upgrade, I want something a bit more professional with a manual focus ring (which is the reason I chose the D3100 over an average camcorder in the first place), preferably under $1, 000. Any suggestions? Or would it be best to continue to use the same camera until I raise my price range?

Continue with the camera that you have. A camcorder will make your footage look like old video. The next step up for you is the Nikon D7000 but it's not going to make a big difference in your videos. If you have money and want to buy some gear, get lenses first. The Zeiss F lenses are really good for cine on the Nikons but they are expensive. The Zeiss 85mm f1.4 is really nice. The better cameras are important if you are being paid to shoot and they need slightly better footage for broadcast. Don't worry about gear, worry about making good films. You sound like you are on your way.

I'd say keep using the D3100 for now. You could use a few hundred of that and buy a GoPro2 which would definitely be a great asset. We use it all the time in network reality shows.

Try going to www.productionbooth.com, it may help with your situation. Its free and in Beta, but VERY helpful.