There's has been many times we were questioned by friends how are gears important in getting good pictures. In my honest opinion, having gears will help produce good quality pictures, but at the end of the day, it is nothing more than just another machine.
It is the photographer who will be controlling the gear, composing and deciding what settings should be, where the subject should be placed, considering the factors to bring the best out of the photos. To make sure the gears are used to it's fullest potential depends on the person who is using it.
Having a set of pro brushes and a pallete of colours, but without a painter, is just another tool. But a painter with any brush or paint can make art happen.
Camera don't take pictures, photographers do.
An interesting article from Ken Rockwell...
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm
We may not have the top notch body or lens but love them just as much...
Ok now let's have a group photo boys... Say Cheese!!
Love 'em all...