Read forums, books, and articles on the subject. Stay up to date with new technology and filming techniques. Learn what cameras and lenses are good for certain lighting and shots and moods. New cameras are constantly coming out and changing how we think about film. Or, rather digital film.
You will be valued by your work. But also by your knowledge of your craft. If you’re the person who people come to with a camera or lighting question, you’re in a good place. You want to be the person that people know to come to with any questions. Whether it’s "What’s the newest camera out right now?" or "In that movie we just watched, how did the director get that awesome shot?"
