Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Digital Camera Accessories: Tips For Beginners And Advanced Users

By Sylvia Howard

The digital camera is one of the most common pieces of consumer electronics nowadays. From pros with high-end SLR cameras to kiddies with picture-phones, everyone has them. But few people realize the importance and potential of digital camera accessories, which are not only for experts but also for beginners.

And if you are a beginner with a strong interest in photography, you should look even more into the various extras, accessories and tools that are available. Using them will improve your technique, maybe to the point where you will be able to turn your hobby into a new occupation.

Digital camera accessories are also not limited to high-end SLR cameras, as there is a wide set of extras that will help you improve your technique and that will allow you to take better pictures even if you own a humble compact digital camera.

There are various types of digital camera accessories available that will be of use right from the start, or that you may need in the future to improve the quality and flexibility of your photography. Some of the digital camera accessories that should be part of your arsenal include the following:

A camera bag is probably going to be the first companion of most new digital cameras, and for a reason. Camera bags are cheap and protect the equipment within, also making it easier to carry. Indispensable when travelling, they are great to keep all your kit together in one place even when at home.

Camera bags are available in several specifications, from the simple hold-all to the specialized compartmented SLR backpack. You can of course carry your camera in any kind of bag, but a padded, purpose-made item is a wise buy.

Somewhat less ubiquitous than bags, but just as useful, are camera tripods. This item allows you to take better pictures in low light conditions, to take long exposition photos, and to brace your camera more solidly than if you were just holding it. Tripods may seem like a pain to carry around, but most for them are foldable and many are made out of very light and durable aluminum alloys.

Don't forget to check if your camera screws onto the tripod when acquiring a new one, or you will have to buy another!

The possibility to take many pictures, in the form of extra storage cards, is another great extra. In fact most digital cameras come with little internal storage, and you will have to an extra card right away. Being able to take a lot of pictures is especially useful if you are photographing fast-moving objects, such as on a safari or at a sports event. - 16738

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