[gchappel]

What system where you using to clean the sensor with? I shoot everywhere from beaches to caves so sensor cleaning is common. I assume you tried a blower first- works most of the time (80%) as long as you do it frequently and don't let the goop bake on. A dry brush system- like visible dust is easy, rarely makes things worse and works most of the time the blower fails. I only have to use the wet system- I use pecpads and eclipse about twice a year. A lighted loupe makes things much easier- I use the one from visible dust. You will get better at it- it is no big deal. It does get scary when once in a while it seems to get worse as you work- that feeling does go away with practice.
Not using an slr because it can get dusty makes no sense at all- cleaning literally usually only takes seconds and can be done in the field.- once you have done it a dozen times or so and have the correct tools. That would be like saying I don't drive an older porsche because you might have to work on it once in a while.
Use the correct tool for the correct job, be that a hammer, camera, or car.
Gary