Essential Camera Accessories and Gadgets

Camera accessories are equally as important as the camera itself. In many ways, they are the secret to great photos, simplifying the process and making life easier for the photographer.

With so many different camera accessories available, you can quickly fall down a rabbit hole. A quick search leaves you inundated with options and it can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners. Photography gear can also be expensive. Luckily, there are affordable options on the market that don’t sacrifice quality.

Here are a few essential camera accessories and gadgets to get you started on the right track.

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Vanguard VEO 2 235AB Black Aluminum Travel Tripod

This is one of the most valuable camera accessories in the photographer’s arsenal. From night photography to macro, tripods play a key role in stabilizing your camera and assisting you in getting “the shot.” When looking for a tripod, consider the following: the weight rating (how much weight it can support), height, legs and feet, and tripod head. It seems like a lot to consider, but like anything else it mostly comes down to personal preference. An example of a tripod that checks off all the basics is the Vanguard VEO 235AB. Best of all, it’s compact and perfect for travel. Buy it here.

Nikon 25395 MC-DC2 Remote Release Cord

Remote shutter release, when paired with a tripod, is an especially important camera gadget for landscape photographers. It allows the photographer to capture an image without physically touching the camera, eliminating camera shake and resulting in tack sharp images. Shutter releases are also great for increased exposure times, which are perfect for night photography. Wireless releases are available as well, but the Nikon 25395 MC-DC2 Remote Release Cord is a reliable choice to start with if you have a NIkon camera. Check out the variety of remote shutter releases on Amazon to find the one that’s right for your camera.

HOYA PRO1 Digital Filter Circular Polarizer PL DMC Filter

A circular polarizer is an underrated accessory for landscape photographers. When attached to your lens, circular polarizers can boost color, intensify skies, improve contrasts and control haze and reflections. When shopping for a circular polarizer be sure you purchase a filter that is the same size as the lens you’re using. While there are a multitude of options, a quality yet affordable polarizer is the Hoya PRO1, which comes in several different sizes. Buy it here.

K&F Concept ND Filter 

Neutral density filters control the amount of light that enters the camera. By controlling the light and adjusting shutter speeds, you can create motion and blurred effects in your images. These filters are used quite often by landscape photographers and are valuable camera accessories. It is important to select a quality filter as cheaper products can cause an unwanted vignette (darkening along the edges) and color distortion. The K&F Concept ND Filter is a solid option for newer photographers. Buy it here.

CADeN Camera Backpack Bag

One of the most important camera accessories by far is a good camera bag. It’s not only a place to keep your camera, lenses and other gadgets, but it’s how they get safely transported as well. Camera bag options are infinite. The capacity and the number of compartments in your camera bag are two important factors, as it must be able to fit all the necessary gear. There is nothing worse than not having the equipment you need when you’re out on a shoot. Look for thick padded walls in the bag and the compartments, as the padding will protect your camera from damage. The CADeN Camera Backpack Bag checks all the boxes and looks great, too. Buy it here. 

Altura Photo Adjustable Camera Neck Strap

A camera strap is one of the most underestimated yet essential camera accessories. While most cameras come with a standard – and frankly boring – strap, there are many options that allow you to express your personality and style. There are three types of straps: a hand strap, wrist strap and neck strap. A quick-release neck strap lets your camera hang at your side for easy camera access. When making your selection, keep material, camera compatibility and ease of use in mind. Remember that while looks are important, your camera must always feel secure. Buy it here.

Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit

Clean camera lenses and sensors are incredibly important when it comes to photography, that’s a no-brainer. Cleaning your equipment thoroughly and frequently is imperative, so a cleaning kit is a must. No one likes an image with dust spots. A clean camera sensor saves so much editing time. Microfiber cloths, a blower and dusters are important components to a kit. One of the top-rated cleaning kits is the Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit. It comes with everything you might need to clean your camera. Buy it here.

Camera accessories and gadgets can be a fun and easy way to improve your photography. When making your decision, be sure to thoroughly research a product and brand before using it on/with your camera.

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