I've got a S/C 02 and i'm a photographer as well and I really like my truck, I've got 40,000+ miles on it and with the exception of returning it for a few recalls, have not had any problems with it and have found it to be a very robust truck and great for photo adventures and getting out into the landscape to photograph. you can carry a load of gear in it.

I do most of the maintaince myself and the oil is really simple to do. I'd wait a few months before getting into the mods, see what you really need.

As for the S/C, you just have to go with the flow and not get bent out of shape about the cost of premium fuel, its the cost of doing business and to get upset about the crappy fuel cost will just make you nuts. FYI, in the summer, the best I ever got was 19 mpg, the worst, in the winter driving around town 12-13mpg!