Creativity or Gear - Which Is More Important For A Photographer

Trust me, I am not against photographers or photography classes. In truth, I am totally in favor of learning as much as possible, especially where photography is concerned. However, due to a recent change in attitude on my part, I must say this.Photographers are not an automatic result of great camera equipment!That's it. I said it, and I'm sticking with it. It hasn't been very long since I was also a adherent to the concept that to be a photographer you had to own all the best gear. He must have a well equiped studio with assistants and lighting gear.I have changed my mind.Photography is not about gear. Neither does the college degree define the photographer. And, a special "gift" does not make one a photographer.Photography is real life. It's an individual who knows when to press the shutter button on the camera. It's about "seeing" the light that will make a difference in the image.Stop for a minute and remember those photos that have captured your imagination or moved you to some different emotional state. Those are the ones with life. Even the still life images that draw you to them do it by stirring you emotionally. Those pictures call out to you and grab you.These kinds of pictures are the product of photographers. Photographers take the pictures with the best gear, or, if need be, with the least of gear. They just have a passion to make great pictures. Then they go out and do it.Here are some of the qualities of areal photographer:    •    He looks at things differently. He observes light and color values, and he incorporates line and design in his photographic compositions.    •    He can see the beauty of nature and take photos of it that normal people wouldn't even notice.    •    He is extremely observant of the environment and he records it in many different ways.    •    He is willing to share his experiences via image display so that all of us can see what he saw.But there are also some common misconceptions about photographers that you need to get rid of:    •    A photographer is not just lucky. Being at the right place at the right time does play a part in the game, but it is not because of luck. It is because she is dedicated to her passion.    •    He is good because she has the newest and bestest of gear. Many folks think that if they don't have that new digital SLR that just came out with the super-duper prime lens, they will not get the best shots. Although having good gear is important for a pro, it does not define a photographer.    •    A photographer does not need to be a born artist. It is true that some people have a better eye for picture making, but it is also true that the eye can be trained to see the creative images.    •    He has a natural knack for things that are technical and difficult. One of the myths regarding photography is that it is really technical, which really makes it hard for normal people to grasp. Not true. A photographer can take outstanding pictures with any equipment. Sure, there are lots of cameras and gear are fairly technical, but, once again, technical expertise does not determine a photographer.Great photography is actually quite easy. Be prepared to take a photo when the opportunity presents itself (hence the term "photo opportunity"). "See" your surroundings in a different light. Become familiar with some primary guidelines about shooting technique. Shoot.