Anyone reading about photography these days finds it difficult to avoid the “Which is better, Canon or Nikon?” debate that seems to preoccupy so many photographers. Fact is, photo equipment is simply a tool -- a means to an end. It's more about what you focus on, not what you focus with.
I like to offer this analogy: No matter how knowledgeable a fisherman you are, no matter how carefully you select your lure, how well you cast, how patient or how hungry you are, if the fish aren't biting, you're going home empty handed. And whether you have a Zebco reel or a Daiwa has nothing to do with it and should be your least concern.
But don't despair. Rest assured that whether you are a professional wedding photographer or an amateur taking a casual portrait of the kids, it is possible to catch the limit with a Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sony or any of the many other fine brands that are available. (For the record, my digital gear is Canon and my film gear is Nikon).
TIP: Remember, it's not what you show up with that matters, it's what you take home at the end of the day.
A photographer's most important piece of equipment isn't his or her camera. It's a brick. A brick...!? Actually, a hammer or any similar object will suffice -- as long as it's hard enough to knock from your head the first idea that comes to mind when you look through the viewfinder.
Usually, being experienced at something is a plus. But as a photographer, it can also lead to tunnel vision and turn an otherwise creative shooter into a creature of habit. So, when you take that first look and formulate that first impression of how to shoot your subject, immediately discard it. Grab your brick and knock that idea out of your head!
When it's time for your 6-year-old niece to blow out the candles on her birthday cake, don't stand and queue up alongside everyone shooting eye-level from across the table, stay seated and grab a tight profile from the side. It will be the shot everyone will be talking about. Don't confuse knee-jerk habits with spontaneity. Resist dull routine. Pack that brick and use as directed!
TIP: When planning a photo, the worst thing to come to mind is the first thing!