Does Camera Equipment Matter?

So often someone will comment that they really like my camera – and that I must be able to take amazing photographs. And this is true – I take amazing photographs. However, having a cool camera doesn’t make me an awesome photographer. There are more factors that lead to awesome photographs.

This weekend I was able to hang out with other photographers from all ages, backgrounds, and they all and different cameras, lenses and techniques. Here is a photograph I took at dinner after the photo walk. There is a Canon 7D DSLR, a Canon G11 point-n-shoot, a Pentax with Sigma lens, and even an iPhone.

There are 4 cameras in this photo. Can you find them?

Cameras, lenses, flashes, computers, software are nothing more than tools. And when you have the knowledge on how to use those tools you have the power to create awesome photographs. And good cameras make things easier.

Nikon has a wonderful Autofocus system. Canon has some awesome prime lenses. Hasselblad has huge resolutions. And the iPhone is with me all the time. So every tool has a benefit.

And below is a macro photograph of a Nikon lens. I took this photograph hand held with a bounce flash. My macro lens makes it easier because it has VR (vibration reduction). Otherwise I would have had to use a tripod. It is all about the tools you use.