5 Must-Have DSLR Camera Accessories

Published
By Lindsay Sakraida, dealnews staff writer

With so many great deals on digital SLR cameras these days, just about anyone can channel their inner Annie Leibovitz. But before you start planning a high-concept fashion shoot, you've got to make sure you've got the right gear at hand to keep things running smoothly. Unlike point-and-shoot digital cameras, SLRs need some gear to go with them. Photography equipment can run the gamut in price, so it's important to choose wisely. Some lenses cost even more than the camera itself. But fear not: our list of must-have accessories keep the true cost of digital SLR photography in check, so you'll be happily taking snapshots for some time to come.

1. Zoom in
It's very likely that you purchased your DSLR bundled with a basic kit lens, like the one found with this refurbished Canon EOS Rebel T2i (now out of stock). Usually this "standard" lens features a short focal range of 18-55mm, which is ideal for everyday use. For a second lens, try something with a bit more zoom. This Sigma 70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG Macro Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon (now out of stock) or Canon will give you greater reach without too much bulk.
Price: Sigma for Nikon, $159 + free shipping; Sigma for Canon, $148.81 + $6.99 s&h

2. Put a cap on it
Back in the days of film, photographers would use a UV lens filter to negate the hazy effect that ultraviolet light has on film stock. With today's digital sensors, it isn't necessary for this purpose. However, many photographers will still keep a filter on their lens to protect it from scratches. Try this 58mm UV Lens Filter and thank us the next time the cheap cover is on the receiving end of a blow, rather than your very expensive optics.
Price: $2.45 + 50 cents for shipping

3. Steady goes it
If you're keen on the ethereal nature of low-light photography, a tripod is a necessity; the longer exposure times that are required will make your image more susceptible to blur from movement. Instead of relying on your less-than-steady hand, beat the blur with this National Geographic Tundra Tripod. It's also helpful to have on reserve for timed shots (hello, family portraits!) and any shoot that may require careful staging.
Price: $26.99 + free shipping

4. Bag it up
Nothing's worse than spending a pretty penny on quality photographic equipment, then throwing it into any old tote bag. If you're just starting out, you may not have much to carry around. Or, you may be unsure of what your storage needs will be. In that case, start off slow with this very basic Fabric Camera Bag. If you're planning on traveling with more equipment, get serious with the Lowepro Primus AW Premium Backpack, which stores up to two extra lenses.
Price: Basic bag, $13.99 + free shipping; Lowepro, $74.95 + free shipping

5. Stock up on storage
Avoid that dreaded "Memory Card Full" moment by stockpiling cheap SDHC cards. Try the Transcend 8GB Class 10 SDHC Card, or buy in bulk with three of these A-DATA 4GB SDHC Class 4 cards. Keep them handy in your camera bag, and you'll never again have to make your subjects wait for their close up while you play Russian Roulette with old images.
Price: Transcend card, $12.74 + free shipping; A-Data card, 3 for $17.97 + free shipping

Final tally: About $212

DealNews may be compensated by companies mentioned in this article. Please note that, although prices sometimes fluctuate or expire unexpectedly, all products and deals mentioned in this feature were available at the lowest total price we could find at the time of publication (unless otherwise specified).

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3 comments
Molardaddy
Definitely need a wide array of good lenses. Nikon and Canon definitely make the best, but Sigma and Tokina, and Tamron are good alternatives depending on the lenses. Good filters cost about $35 or more depending on the size. if you plan to get better lenses later on, then buy 77mm filters and buy step-up rings that will allow your current 58mm lens to use a 77mm filter. This way you have an excellent filter that you can use for your future lenses. Tripods are great investment. Good quality ones do cost closer to $100 range...especially the carbon types which are lighter. If you plan to buy a semi-pro or pro DSLR in the future, then get the better tripod now. Memory cards are definitely a must. If you plan to shoot in RAW mode, then a minimum of 8GB is good to have ...maybe 2-3 in qty. 4GB for normal JPEGS would be sufficient if you do not plan to take more than 200 pictures. Sandisk extremes and Lexar professionals are the best in reliability. Transcend has gotten good reviews as well. Spend a little more now on accessories so that they are not lying around later when you upgrade your equipment. Lowepro bags are the best because of their durability. Other brands are good as well like Tamrac depending on the style you are looking for. Amazon, Adorama, B&H PhotoVideo, http://Buydig.com are the best online places to buy while EBay is great for used stuff. I have spend $17K+ on equipment and not being a professional....so I know!
March 11, 2011
rcorrino
#2 Put a cap in it......

I find it illogical to put a $2 piece of plastic in front of several hundred (or even thousand) dollars worth of precision crafted optics. If you want to protect the front element of your lens, without possibly degrading the picture it takes, use a lenshood. And if you really want to put a filter on your lens, don't scrimp. Use a good quality glass filter from B&W or Singray to name a few.
March 10, 2011
mithrindir
i dunno if the national geographic tripod is such a good idea for DSLRs since many of the reviewers with DLSRs have had bad experiences with the tripod quality. almost all of the positive reviews are with point and shoot cameras
also, fyi the cheap 58mm uv filter will almost definitely affect color reproduction which some people might be fine with (especially without side by side comparisons with and without filter).

Nice post, by the way, lots of good information.
March 9, 2011