I would say that equipment helps in this day an age as it always did.How many remember the old augment that you could get the same quality enlargement ( 20 x 16 ) and above from a 35mm neg as opposed to medium or large format.

But I still say having the ability to "see" a good image in your mind and view finder is of greater importance.

Over the years as a wedding and portrait photographer I have met many who have the best of equipment but couldn't compose a good shot if they were paid millions.

The ability to "see" an imago before you even switch the camera on is as of as much importance as any equipment.In my humble opinion.

Still wish I could afford that 1000mm lens though :-)

Eddie