dennis_ernst1

<p>This is a very interesting discussion and something we all have to answer for ourselves when evaluating our own work.<br>

I see photography as being a three step process. First there is the interaction with the subject. This is often more like forming some kind of a relationship with it. For me this step is largely talent but there is room for leaning there. The second step is the capture. This is more something I learn through practice and education. The thirds step is the communication of your work. This I feel requires both talent and skill. The ability to communicate well in photography is no different than any other field and has much to do with your success as others see it.<br>

Doing what you love to do is where talent lies. Unless there is that love for doing it, practicing is only drudgery and frustration in the end.<br>

I think in order to become “great” you need to have both talent and skill. It’s a rare person that get a big endowment of both.</p>

<p>Being a Canon cropped sensor shooter I agree with most everything said about but have one reservation. I've traveled both the US and Europe and always found myself wanting a wider lens. In a great many places I've found my subjects are very close or I want to capture a wide landscape and the 24-105 wasn't enough. In Italy and Greece I shot the 10-22 about 60% of the time and was very satified with the results. Take a good look at the type of shooting you want to do and see if a one-lens solution will really work.</p>