For those of you interested in taking up amateur photography, we discussed the camera and the lens in our last blog, but there is more equipment that you may want and need.  When it comes to purchasing photography equipment it can be challenging to say the least. There is information all over the Internet regarding photography equipment and some of it can be quite detailed and specific. We are trying for a more general approach by sharing a few tips and pointers as to what you should be looking for in equipment. So, let’s get on with beginning photography part 2.

What Else You Will Need

While the most basic equipment is the camera and lens, there is other equipment you will probably want to purchase, especially as you grow in the field, such as a tripod and ball head, a flash, and filters.

The Tripod: Oftentimes, people will reason away the need for a tripod. You may think: Heck, I will never use it, I don’t have one now and never seem to need it. But the fact is, you may not need a tripod much of the time, but not only are they handy to have, there will be a time when you definitely wish you invested in one.  Buy a tripod that is sturdy. If you invest in a cheap, flimsy one you won’t want to use it, or you can have mishaps. The ball head allows you to adjust the position of the camera. A tripod without a ball head is like your body without a neck. What good is your head if you can’t move it around to see?

The Flash: Similar to the tripod you may feel you don’t need to invest in a flash. However, even if you don’t seem to use external lighting often enough for your photos, there will be a time when you need it. An attachable flash is probably the most appropriate for the fledgling photographer. It has the ability to adjust so you can capture lighting at different angles; it’s great for shooting activity such as at a wedding; and it is easy to travel with.

Filters:  The most useful filter for a digital camera is the polarizer. Polarizers work the same way as polarized sunglasses, by reducing glare from shiny surfaces, reducing haze, and darkening the sky. Polarizers also make images look vibrant.

ABOUT YOUR DALLAS, TX, PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER:

Doug Davis has been producing professional, engaging videos and product, food, and lifestyle photography from his Dallas, TX, studio for more than 20 years. D-Squared Studios is located at 4312 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas, 75226. Contact our office at (214) 746-6336 or email Doug at doug.davis@d2studios.net.