Lots of bad photographers can’t seem to figure out photography is art. All the rules get in the way of them understanding that. I do wonder if photography attracts people who were never interested in other art forms. Certainly the best photographers have an artists mindset.
The dilettante who cares more about the equipment than the work is a well worn cliche, but on the other hand lots of "real" painters love the smell of paint.
Lots of photographers, good and bad, like how finicky and mechanical cameras are.
It's not really that different from a musical instrument. The camera might be finicky but you need to get to the point you're not focusing on the camera and it just becomes a tool that is there. The way digital photography has turned into a measuring contest where everyone is always getting the newest gear doesn't help with that.
