subject: What Kind Of Photo Equipment Is Important To Have? [print this page] With every new picture you take, you'll find that there is a lot more to know than just learning how to use the basic camera. The fun starts when you start using different pieces of equipment designed to help you take better pictures. So, here is a list of photo gear that you'll find invaluable in almost every situation
Digital Camera
This one is so basic it almost doesn't need to be mentioned- it's your digital camera. If you don't already own a digtal, then consider getting a basic digital SLR that lets you manually control the aperture, focus and exposure length. Although point and shoot automatic digital cameras are great for taking pictures of people, they lack the flexibility for taking quality photographs.
Tripod
When stability counts, there is no substitute for a classic tripod. Tripods can be inexpensive, easy to carry, and can provide you with opportunities that a hand-held camera cannot. Longer exposures and low-light photography will need the aid of a tripod if they are going to turn out as anything but a blurry mess.
Memory Cards
Although today's memory cards hold a lot of data and images, there's always the possibility you'll run out of space or it will fail. So don't forget to bring at least a couple of extra large memory cards so you'll never miss the opportunity to get the perfect shot. There is nothing more frustrating than having a lot of great photo opportunities and not having enough space on your memory card.
Your Power Source -Batteries
Much like memory cards, no matter how long you think your battery is going to last, it's always best to keep an extra one in the bag. A digital camera is really just a paper weight without the batteries. Even though most cameras are pretty efficient with battery usage, you still want to have a couple of extra batteries on hand in case you need them.
Camera Bag
A camera bag doesn't have to be fancy but you just want a bag that will have room for all your gear. Make sure to get a bag that can fit extra lenses, batteries and other small equipment because functionality is more important than beauty when buying a camera bag. Keeping your camera protected and safe is also important so you need to have a quality camera bag to put your camera when it's not in use.
A Basic Zoom and Macro Lens
You don't have to go crazy at the photo store and buy every lens you see, but you will certainly benefit from bringing basic zoom and macro lenses. These days, many camera manufacturers sell lenses that are a combination of both so you can have more functionality without having to get multiple lenses.
Basic Photo Editing Software
If digital is going to be your game, you're going to want to have a way to edit those photos once you bring them into the computer. As with any type of camera, once you get good pictures that you want to share or display, you're going to need to print your images. It's a good idea to buy a good quality photo editing software so you can start using it right away to edit your digital pictures. Photo software comes in super helpful anytime you have to make minor changes to your pictures like removing red eye or getting rid of something in the background.
Just like many other activities, if you come prepared with the right set of tools, there is no limit to the number of great pictures you can shoot. Of course, you should always be honest with yourself about your needs and about what you want to do with your camera - all this gear is certainly useful, but you may not want to lug it around on a vacation with the family. Start with a good stock of equipment and train yourself to bring what you'll need and you can't lose.
