Photography tips

To those of you that are incredibly gifted in the photography department why not share some tips and equipment suggestions to those of us that are striving for quality pictures?

Favorite camera?
Favorite lens?
Lighting?
Background?

1. Canon 30d
2. 60mm Macro lens (love it!)
3. Blue lights...
4. Daylight balenced white backround or this cool rock that works better!

Ill go into more detail tomorrow im off to bed :)