I think the folks that would have done well 30-50 years ago will still do well with automatic cameras, whereas folks that used to get instamatics can now buy a Rebel. Most of us learn when to turn off the automation. I have found that I trust AE but have increasingly gone to MF. When I do use AF, it's because the camera is faster than me and I have a better chance of getting the shot.
And, of course, the argument in the article is dumb. To really make the point, you should compare yourself with a comparable photographer form 35 years ago, not one of the great masters. Of course, for some of us, that comparable photographer would be ourselves. ;-) Oddly enough, I do agree with one point, however. The only real level of automation I enjoy would be AV preferred for film cameras. For digital, I would add iso and white balance. Steven Desjardins Department of Chemistry Washington and Lee University Lexington, VA 24450 (540) 458-8873 FAX: (540) 458-8878 [EMAIL PROTECTED]