Image credit: Antti-Jussi Kovalainen, https://flic.kr/p/9nVvav
Deciding on what kind of digital camera to buy can be a challenging decision on its own, but what about accessorizing?! There are so many different photo accessories out there including camera bags, filters, tripods and straps (to name just a few!) that knowing what’s worthwhile to buy can be confusing. We’ve compiled our top 3 must have photo accessories to keep your cameras safe and protected while you shoot!
Protective Filter
Every photographer should have one of these for every lens they own. A protective lens filter consists of a clear coated piece of glass that screws onto the very end of a lens. It’s main job is to protect the actual glass of your lens from dirt, scratches and debris. Think about what would happen if you accidentally drop your lens…would you rather spend $30 to replace the filter or $300 to replace the whole lens? Protective filters will range in price depending on the size needed for a the lens but on average, filters for 18mm – 55mm lenses (standard kits lenses) are about $30.
Image credit: http://www.hoyafilter.com/hoya/products/hdfilters/hdfilterprotector/
Camera Bag
A safe place to store and protect your camera is essential. When looking to buy a bag keep in mind your lifestyle and where you are most likely to bring your camera. If you usually shoot indoors, shooting family photos in houses as an example, then a super heavy duty bag is going too be overboard for you. If you travel or have a lot of gear and like to take your laptop with you then a bigger bag on wheels with a laptop compartment makes more sense. The key features to look for on any bag are heavy duty straps, sturdy zippers and thick removable/adjustable pads in the interior. For bigger bags definitely go for a backpack style as one strapped shoulder bags will start to hurt after a while.
Image credit: http://www.blessthisstuff.com/stuff/wear/bags-luggage/burton-camera-bag/
Tripods
A solid tripod is a great investment that will really open up the possibilities of creative shooting. While small or plastic tripods might seem appealing because of how lightweight they are, be careful because they might not be strong enough to support the weight of your camera. Also remember that those bendy tripods you see that can wrap around objects are better for point in shoot cameras not DSLR’s with heavy lenses. A good tripod should have some weight to it!
Image credit: https://www.martinbaileyphotography.com/2013/07/15/tripods-what-when-and-why-i-use-them-podcast-379/