Picture the Savings: 5 Cool Camera Accessory Deals

Camera technology and gadgetry have come so far in the last decade, you might feel overwhelmed by all the options and accessories flooding the market. But here's reason to smile: High-quality and reliable cameras are putting great pictures within the grasp of even novice photographers.

This week we offer a snapshot of hot camera accessory deals, those side items that will bring your pictures to the next level. The best photographers know that it takes many small details coming together to ensure the best results. You already know not to stick your finger in front of the lens, so let's get straight to the bargains.

1. 
   Lowepro Flipside 200 Digital SLR Backpack
   Store: Adorama
   Price: $49.95 via coupon code "S2737706" with free shipping
   Lowest by: $7

   Is it worth it?: While digital technology allows you to transmit photos through cyberspace, no such equivalent exists for lugging bulky camera equipment. So this backpack may represent the next best thing. This model is made from water–resistant fabric and has neat features such as a detachable accessory pouch. It also averages 4-1/2 out of 5 stars from the 19 ratings on Adorama's web site.




2. 
   Dolica Tripod and Ball-head Monopod Combo
   Store: newegg
   Price: $24.99 via coupon code "EMCKAKD87" with free shipping
   Lowest by: $12

   Is it worth it?: Oh, yeah! We declared this deal an Editors' Choice because, with all the discounting going on, you get two handy camera stands for a lower price than just one. newegg is offering the above coupon to get this price for its newsletter subscribers only. Both of these pods will reach a maximum height of greater than 5 feet, and the tripod comes with a quick-release plate and bubble level to make sure you've got the camera lined up just right.




3. 
   PC Micro Store: Up to 70% off + extra 50% off digital camera batteries
   Store: PC Micro Store
   Discount: Extra 50% off via coupon code "YMDCA50OFF"
   Shipping: Free shipping

   Is it worth it?: Batteries are one of those niggling items many amateur shutterbugs forget until they really need them. Pros always have spares on hand, and this sale takes away any excuse you could imagine not to order lots and lots of Young Micro Digital camera batteries. This sale covers batteries for a slew of different makes and models, so chances are excellent you'll find what you need.




4. 
   Nikon SB-400 Speedlight Flash
   Store: Crutchfield
   Price: $109.99 via coupon code "3A825" plus free shipping
   Lowest by: $15

   Is it worth it?: Nikon is one of those gold-standard names in photography, so any time you can get a flash this good for a price this low, jump on it. A tilt-head flash of this quality allows you to angle the light to get just the right illumination for your pictures. The lens — which comes with a 1-year warranty, by the way — requires two AA batteries, not included. But with what you'll be saving here you can by a barrel of those.




5. 
   Photographer's Pro Bundle with Tenba Bag & Tripod Kit
   Store: Amazon
   Price: $101.42 plus free shipping
   Lowest by: $49

   Is it worth it?: The smart 15" black messenger bag in this bundle could hold your laptop or travel supplies, and the durable tripod and carrying case makes schlepping to any shoot convenient and easy. This particular model has aluminum twist-lock legs and a carrying capacity of almost 9 lbs., which means it can support heavier lenses. It's also weather-resistant, meaning it can handle extreme conditions other tripods can't. Of course, how your fancy camera will fare is another story.

Lou Carlozo is dealnews' Green Dad columnist. He was most recently the managing editor of WalletPop.com and, before that, a veteran columnist at the Chicago Tribune. Follow him on Twitter— @LouCarlozo63. You can also sign up for an email alert for all dealnews features.