I'm sort of used to getting a compliment from a non-photographer, then in the same breath, being asked what kind pf equipment I use. The presumption apparently that the secret to making my photos lies in the equipment, not me.
But this week I got an email from a photographer wanting to know exactly what equipment I use for lighting, down to make and model numbers. Because he was sure I had something "more sophisticated" than he had.
Doubtful. And utterly irrelevant.
I have discontinued models of White Lightnings that are falling apart. And I'm still shooting with the 8MP Canon Digital Rebel.
It is not the equipment, but knowing how to use it. Well, that's part of it, anyway. You also must know how to work with people and get them to relax and be themselves. You have to know darkroom or Photoshop technique. You have to know what a good exposure and good composition looks like before you can do it yourself -- this seems obvious, but trust me, it isn't, as I'm finding out.
If you want to be a better photographer, stop blaming or attributing your failures and successes on your equipment and work on your technique. I'm sorry that's harder than just buying a fancy piece of equipment, but there aren't any shortcuts.
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