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Recognize that shortcuts will only cause you to miss important mile markers, ultimately postponing your arrival at the desired destination. If one wants to enjoy long term success, a strong foundation is key. This starts with a solid knowledge of manual exposure, the important camera features, and the language of photography. Buying more expensive gear won't result in leapfrogging the competition. No matter what piano an untrained musician sits at, they still can't play it.
The effort you put in now will be rewarded later. This is echoed by writer Henry Miller who said "In this age, which believes that there is a shortcut to everything, the greatest lesson to be learned is that the most difficult way is, in the long run, the easiest."
Source:https://www.nyip.edu/photo-articles/archive/reach-your-goals-faster