My Top Gear

I often get asked what is my most important piece of equipment for my photography, my top gear? And that question typically relates to a camera or a camera/lens combo. Well, let me assure you, it is not a piece of hardware. Actually, it is quite simple. Everyone has it. Can you guess? Find out after the jump….

The photographs above were taken in an abandoned mining village near the Merzouga sand dunes in the Sahara Desert in Southeastern Morocco. A desert boy and his father were selling souvenirs to the few visitors at this viewpoint. It was midday, hot, the sand was blowing, the light was terrible and the panorama, at best, was worth capturing perhaps for documentary “I was there” purposes.

What immediately intrigued me was the teenage boy, his dignity, the intense blue colors of his traditional clothing. And the fact that he was sitting on a carpet. Viewed out of the right perspective, it almost seemed the Arabian boy was sitting on a flying carpet. Remember Aladdin 😉 ?

This little story from our recent trip to Morocco also provides the answer about what is my most important piece of equipment, my top gear…it is my eyes.

The photographer’s eye is the most important part of equipment, because it is the eye that visualizes the composition and perspective, anticipates the possibilities to transform ordinary scenes into compelling images, capturing gesture and emotions that no camera can recognize on its own. Ultimately, it is the vision and creativity of the photographer that breathes life into a photograph, surpassing the technical capabilities of any camera. It is the eye that can turn anyone into a great photographer, regardless of the equipment…

The photograph was taken with my iPhone.

Have a great Sunday

Marcus

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