How important is a good camera?

"That camera is huge! It must take great pictures!" Most professional photographers have heard those words more times than they can count. As a photojournalist, I may have a little different opinion of gear than many photographers. To me, a camera is a tool used to visually tell stories. It would be like asking a writer, "Gee, you write great stories, what type of pen do you use?"

Don't get me wrong, with new pro digital cameras, a whole new world has been made available to those who understand cameras. I am able to photograph candid moments in low light like never before. But gear is just gear. As my professors in photojournalism school used to remind me, the photographer is the one who takes pictures. The camera is only the means.

A good camera can help in some situations, but it is each persons unique ability to see and connect with their subjects that allows them to make the most meaningful images. I am reminded of a story about 2004 Magazine Photographer of the Year Alex Majoli.

You have more than likely seen some of Alex's images in national magazines like Newsweek. He often photographs wars and poverty. Alex uses a point and shoot digital camera because it helps him to stay focused on what is most important, the content of his images.