I've got a couple of hiking pals that feel the same way as you - and I never refuse their offer to give me a CD of their digital photos. I wasn't trying to knock photography (and neither was Fletcher; he was prolific photographer, and devotes a fairly lengthy section to backcountry photo methods and gear - but he also points out that, for the benefit gained, you do risk other things you may be out there for.)

It's merely a personal preference not to take photos; Complete Walker was just the first time I was able to justify not doing so, and avoid the self-imposed guilt for leaving the camera behind. (I've also never been much of a picture-taker at home; I always preferred to play with the kids instead of trying to get the great photos other people seem to have.) HYOH?