Keying [good choice of word?] in on Alex B's comment, there's a little bit of comment that traces back to the days of b&w [before your time, Ladyphotog & Elsaspet.]
A photographer goes through three stages of development.
In the first, he/she has to have the latest gear. Continually updates. Rarely takes a picture except to check out a new lens or a different brand of film. Soots mainly test patterns.
In the second, he/she discovers the darkroom. Takes a few pictures and disappears into the dark for a year or so. Suntan fades away. Keeps printing the same few negatives over and over, tweaking this and adjusting that.
In the final stage, the photog can be found wandering around with a much-loved, well-worn old camera. When asked about gear or darkroom technique, the photog mumbles something about catching the light and walks away.
The photog's prints? You'll find them in the Museum of Modern Art.