I remember the first time I picked up my dad's Nikon F.

At risk of bodily harm, probably death from any damage to it, he let me shoot some pictures on a family outing.

That experience changed me forever. I was impressed with how strange and wonderful the camera was. It framed little sections of the world and could freeze moments on film.

It also made people act differently. Those who didn't really like - or even care about me - acted like I was their best friend - or completely ignored me - as long as I had that camera between them and me. [ Next ]