I've had a lot of questions about what kind of camera I use for my photos, so thought I'd do a quick post about the gear I use.
It's my opinion that while the right gear (and good quality gear) helps a photographer capture images the way they see them, the camera is not what makes a good photographer. The camera is just a tool. I believe that it is artistic ability and photographic knowledge that makes a good photographer. And a good photographer uses equipment to their advantage.
I primarily use a Canon EOS-1D Mark II for all of my photos. My first digital DSLR camera was a Canon EOS 10D that I bought in April 2003. I still have my 10D and love it... I keep it as a spare and take it with me when I travel. It got a LOT of use at horse shows (I was a show photographer when I lived in Oregon). I wanted a camera that could take larger image files, so when the 1D Mark II became available, I upgraded.
I also have a Canon PowerShot S2 IS and a Canon G9 -- the G9 is my primary "point & shoot" digital camera. My Canon EOS Elan 7 SLR cameras haven't seen light of day since I transitioned to digital shooting.
I like the fast action of Canon lenses, and the quality of Canon glass. I use the following lenses:
1. Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS L Series
2. Canon 100mm f/2.8 L USM Macro
3. Canon 180mm f/3.5 L USM Macro
4. Canon 85mm f/1.8
5. Canon 100-400mm 4.5/5.6 IS L Series
6. Canon 28-135mm 3.5/5.6 IS
7. Canon 24mm f/2.8 Wide Angle
8. Canon 2.x extender: Doubles the zoom magnification of any lens.
9. Lensbaby: Fun lens for creative effects.
99% of all of my photos are taken in natural light settings, so I rarely use a flash, but I do have a Canon flash for use with the larger DSLR cameras.
In addition to wanting to know what camera I use, people often ask me how they can improve their photography skills. My answer: education.
Learn how to use the camera you have. Learn how to use light to your advantage. Learn what effects you can achieve simply by changing the settings on your camera from Automatic to Manual. Find something you love to take photos of and experiment with various styles of images, angles, and perspectives ... and don't forget the LIGHT!
Don't be afraid of trying something new. That's the best way to learn.