It seems such a simple statement, but it generates quite some discussion on forums. Jerry Walch makes a good argument in the link below for the people who don’t want to spend big dollars on cameras. I agree with him to a point. I think the really good gear can make it easier to take a great photo, but not necessary to take a great photo. The photo below isn’t a world beater, but it isn’t bad for a $30 plastic camera and home developed.

Digital photography: The photographer is more important than the camera | Factoidz.