Here's a story about technology allowing us to discover something surprising.
Extra, Extra, Read all about it Renaissance Artist uses photographic techniques two hundred years before....
Vermeer-Was he Cheating?
Artists using technology is nothing new, but the technology doesn't do it for you! Artists still need to understand the elements and principles of art. They still need to develop many of the same skills required of traditional mediums.
A site like flickr allows an artist looking for resources to share the experiences of thousands of photographers both professional and amateur. It also allows you to hone your aesthetic skills as you must choose from thousands of images, many of which may not support your idea for an artwork! Some might inspire a new idea or direction. As you navigate through these thumbnails, you're able to compare/contrast many different viewpoints, lighting situations, colors, seasons. Look at these images and think about the implications a site like flickr has for your artistic goals.