Essential photography equipment
20 Best Photography Accessories You Should Get in
If you’re a photographer, then you know that having the right photography accessories can make all the difference in the world. From lens filters to camera tripods, there are a lot of different photography accessories that can help you take better photos.
In this article, we’ll share 20 of the best photography accessories that you should get in 2022. Maybe you’re looking for a new lens filter or want to upgrade your camera tripod. These accessories will help you take great photos no matter what situation you’re in.
With such a diverse collection of photography accessories, it’s hard to pick a top choice. But everyone these days needs more memory. And this portable hard disk drive is a great choice. It’s 1 TB, robustly built, and small enough to fit in your pocket.
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
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SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
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20 Essential Photography Accessories You Need to Have
All the items in our list of essential camera accessories are ideal for any photographer. It doesn’t matter what their skill level is or what type of photography they’re into. These are must-have items for any photographer.
The Basics
These are the basic camera accessories you need if you’re a beginner. And they’re the vital pieces of equipment you’ll need from the first time you pick up your camera.
1. Lens Cleaners
Camera maintenance is one of the less glamorous aspects of being a photographer. But it has to be a top priority. Cameras and lenses are expensive and delicate, so you need to take care of them. And keeping your lens clean is the first part of the process.
Even with a lens cap, the outer glass can attract a lot of dust. Every time you remove the cap, dust particles stick to the lens. This also happens with the glass element at the other end. It can pick up dust every time you detach the lens from the camera body.
MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths are perfect for keeping your lenses dust-free. They’re soft with a very fine weave, so they don’t scratch the glass. They pick up all particles so your photos stay clear and clean.
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MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
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$9.95
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2. Camera Strap
Not many camera accessories are more essential than a camera strap. No matter what camera you use, you’ll need a camera strap of some kind. It’s impossible to work without one. And it’s much safer because you’re far less likely to drop it.
Peak Design Slide
The Peak Design Slide is an excellent all-purpose neck strap.
It will attach to all DSLR and mirrorless cameras. And it has quick-adjust handles so you can get the perfect fit. It’s strong, stylish, and won’t let you down.
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Peak Design Slide
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$59.95
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Eorefo Camera Strap Vintage 100cm
If you want something more minimal, the Eorefo rope strap might be the one for you. It’s a rugged neck strap that’s usable with any type of camera. It’s simple and stylish.
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Eorefo Camera Strap Vintage 100cm
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$14.99
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Camera & Cell Phone Neck Strap (Lanyard Style)
For compact cameras, you can go for the lanyard-style neck strap. The quick-release option from Digital NC is the perfect thing for small cameras.
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Camera & Cell Phone Neck Strap (Lanyard Style)
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$14.
99
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3. Camera Bag
As you start taking more and more photos, a good camera bag becomes a must-have accessory. There are plenty of different styles of camera bags. So fashion isn’t a problem. But you need to know the bag will protect your camera equipment.
Peak Design Everyday 20L Backpack in Gray
This Peak Design Backpack is perfect if you’re a two-strap kind of photographer. It has excellent storage space for your equipment. And there’s padding throughout the bag to keep your equipment safe.
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Peak Design Everyday 20L Backpack in Gray
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$409.00
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Lowepro ProTactic MG 160 AW II Shoulder Bag in Black
Many photographers prefer messenger bags to backpacks. They allow you to access your camera without taking the bag off. If you prefer the easy access of a messenger bag, the Lowepro ProTactic MG 160 is fantastic. It’s spacious and protective.
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Lowepro ProTactic MG 160 AW II Shoulder Bag in Black
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$153.48 $163.95
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4. Rubber Lens Cap
As a photographer, your camera lens is one of the most important pieces of equipment. Without it, your camera is pretty much useless. And camera lenses aren’t cheap. That’s why you need to protect them. A rubber lens cap is the perfect accessory for protecting your camera and lens. Even if you have a good camera bag, your gear can get knocked about.
KUVRD Universal Lens Cap
The KUVRD lens cap fits 99% of DSLR lenses, so you don’t need to worry about which brand you use. They also have micro and magnum lens caps for smaller and larger lenses. And the rubber material means it will stretch to fit your lens, providing excellent protection.
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KUVRD Universal Lens Cap
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$17.
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5. Sensor Cleaner
Just like your lens, you need to keep the camera sensors clean. Even the tiniest speck of dust can show up on the final photo, ruining the image quality. It is possible to remove dust spots with photo editing software like Luminar Neo. But keeping your sensor clean is the best option. If you have serious problems with your camera sensor, we recommend taking it to a professional. But you can play your part in keeping it in good condition.
Giottos AA1903 Rocket Air Blaster Large-Red
Digital sensors are incredibly delicate, so you can’t use a cleaning cloth. The best way to remove dust is a Rocket Air Blaster. This great accessory allows you to keep your sensor dust-free without touching it.
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Giottos AA1903 Rocket Air Blaster Large-Red
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$18.99
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Essential Digital Accessories
These camera accessories are necessary items for anyone working with a digital camera.
Film photography is very much alive and well. But most photographers have gone digital. And these are the best camera accessories for the digital era.
6. SD Memory Card
Most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras don’t have internal storage. So a memory card is an essential camera accessory. And when you’re out shooting, they can fill up fast. That’s especially true when you’re shooting in RAW.
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card – C10, U3, V30, 4K UHD, SD Card
Some cameras have dual SD card slots. But if not, you can go for an SD card with more memory. The SanDisk 128 GB Extreme Pro is a fantastic option. It will hold thousands of photos.
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SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card – C10, U3, V30, 4K UHD, SD Card
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$35.99 $44.99
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7. Memory Card Case
The more photos you take, the more memory cards you need. And until you can back them up, they hold all your images.
There’s nothing worse than losing one. That’s why a memory card case is one of the best camera accessories for photographers.
Butterfox 64 Slot Card Case
As the number of SD cards builds up, you need a case that can carry many of them. The Butterfox Card Case has 64 slots for memory cards. It’s useful and protective, keeping your memory cards organized and safe.
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Butterfox 64 Slot Card Case
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$14.99
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SD & CF Card Case
If you’re an action or outdoor photographer, you’ll need something more durable. The Compact Hard Case from Skoloo gives your memory cards the protection they need. It has a durable exterior and is completely waterproof.
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SD & CF Card Case
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$9.99
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8. Memory Card Reader
If you’re using a digital camera, a memory card reader is a must-have camera accessory.
You can fill up as many memory cards as you like, but if you can’t transfer the images, they’re pretty much useless.
A good SD card reader will allow you to transfer your photos from the memory card to other devices. You’ll be able to upload the photos to your computer so you can start your post-production in Photoshop or Luminar Neo.
ProGrade Digital SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader
The ProGrade Memory Card Reader is one of the best for SD cards. It has dual slots, which can speed up the transfer time. If you use different memory cards, you can go for the Transcend Multi-Card reader. It can read SDXC, SDHC, UHS-1, micro SD, and standard SD cards.
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ProGrade Digital SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader
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$79.99
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9. External Hard Drive
An external hard drive might not sound like camera equipment. But they’re one of the best camera accessories for digital photographers.
Storing your photos on memory cards is too risky, as they are small and easy to lose. You need to back everything up.
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
The SanDisk Extreme External SSD is an excellent portable option. It can hold up to 1 TB of data, which is thousands of photos. And it’s small enough to put in your pocket.
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SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD
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$99.99 $249.99
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SanDisk Professional 4TB G-DRIVE
If you want something even bigger, the Sandisk Professional G-Drive gives you 4 TB of storage space. It’s not as portable as the SanDisk, but you won’t fill it up in a hurry.
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SanDisk Professional 4TB G-DRIVE
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$189.99
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10. Tethering Cable
A tethering cable is an excellent piece of photography gear if you do a lot of studio photography.
It allows you to connect your camera directly to your computer. You can see the photos on the screen as soon as they’re taken.
When you see the photos on the computer screen, you can see the images in more detail. It allows you to identify problems so you can fix them straight away. There’s no need for a re-shoot.
Tether Tools TetherPro USB 2.0 to Mini-B
The TetherPro USB is perfect for studio photography. The cable is 15 feet long so you still have freedom of movement while your camera and computer are tethered. It’s an excellent piece of camera gear.
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Tether Tools TetherPro USB 2.0 to Mini-B
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$36.95 $51.73
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Camera Accessories for Photography
These are the best camera accessories for the photography process. They’re pieces of camera equipment that’ll help you capture the best pictures you can. You’ll get the most out of your camera.
And you’ll be able to branch out into new areas of photography.
11. Tripod
Tripods are essential camera accessories for many types of photographers. They keep your camera steady so you can avoid camera shake. Tripods are used in fine art, product, and portrait photography. And landscape photographers can’t work without them.
Manfrotto 290 Xtra Aluminum 3-Section Tripod Kit with Fluid Video Head (MK290XTA3-2WUS)
Manfrotto makes excellent camera accessories. And if you’re in need of a lightweight tripod, their compact aluminum fluid-head tripod is an excellent option. The pan and tilt head gives a fantastic range of movement. And the extendable legs give you excellent height range.
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Manfrotto 290 Xtra Aluminum 3-Section Tripod Kit with Fluid Video Head (MK290XTA3-2WUS)
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$170.80 $260.45
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Joby GorillaPod 3K
If you need something smaller, the Joby Gorilla Pod is one of the best tripod options.
The flexible legs give you creative control. And they can grip onto posts and tree branches.
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Joby GorillaPod 3K
Benro Adventure 3 Series Aluminum Monopod (MAD38A)
A tripod might be too slow to set up for each shot for a sports photographer or photojournalist. Instead, you’ll need a monopod. They keep your camera stable but allow you to move around quickly. The Benro Adventure 3 is our top pick for monopods.
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Benro Adventure 3 Series Aluminum Monopod (MAD38A)
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$70.20
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12. TTL Flash
The flash is another essential piece of kit for many areas of photography. They’re useful in portrait, fashion, and product photography. And flashes are also used in food photography and photojournalism. You can use them on location or in the studio.
Godox V1-N Round Head Camera Flash
The Godox V1-N Flash is one of the best and most affordable on the market.
You need to buy the correct one to match your camera. But they have flashes available for Nikon, Canon, and Sony cameras. The Godox V1-N head has an excellent range of motion. And the different flash modes give you a fantastic array of creative options. It’s a must-have for your camera bag.
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Godox V1-N Round Head Camera Flash
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$219.00 $259.00
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13. Flash Transmitter
Sometimes one flash isn’t enough. You might want to use several flash units at the same time. And to do so, you’ll need a flash transmitter. It will sync all the off-camera flashlights so you can create dynamic lighting effects.
Godox X2T-C TTL Wireless Flash Trigger
We recommend the Flash Transmitter from Godox. It’s an affordable option, but it also has excellent features and build quality. You can change the lighting effects of the flashbulbs. And you can arrange the bulbs into groups for more control.
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Godox X2T-C TTL Wireless Flash Trigger
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$59.00
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14. Reflectors
Light plays an integral role in taking pictures, no matter what photography genre you work in. Light reflectors are an affordable way of taking control of your lighting conditions. You don’t need any electrical plugins or lighting. You can manipulate the ambient light you have.
Neewer 5-in-1 Circular Light Reflector
Neewer has some fabulous camera accessories. And their 43-inch collapsible multi-surface reflectors are some of the best you’ll find. It’s a 5-in-1 set, giving you excellent scope for lighting effects. They also have a set of rectangular reflectors if you need something a bit bigger. You can use reflectors in the studio or out on location. And they’re great for portrait, fashion, and product photography. It’s a purchase you won’t regret.
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Neewer 5-in-1 Circular Light Reflector
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$35.
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15. Shutter Remote
If you like shooting with a slow shutter for long exposures, a remote control for your shutter is an excellent camera accessory.
If you’re using a long shutter for night photography or astrophotography, the slightest movement can affect image quality. Even if you’re using a tripod, clicking the shutter can cause camera shake. Using a shutter remote removes that risk. And they’re great for self-portrait photography too.
Nikon ML-L7 Bluetooth Camera Remote Control
This works with many of Nikon’s DSLRs. And it connects via Bluetooth, so no direct line of sight is necessary. It has programmable function buttons and a video record button. Check compatibility for your specific camera.
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Nikon ML-L7 Bluetooth Camera Remote Control
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Canon Wireless Remote Control RC-6 with Shutter Release
This works with many of Canon’s DSLRs and some mirrorless cameras.
It will operate up to about 15 feet (5 m). But it’s infrared so it needs a direct line of sight. Your particular Canon might need a different remote, so check for compatibility.
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Canon Wireless Remote Control RC-6 with Shutter Release
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$23.95 $30.00
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16. Creative Lens Filters
Creative lens filters are one of the best camera accessories to give your photography a new look. Creative filters include UV, ND, and color filters, giving your photos a different feel. There are also excellent astrophotography filters.
Hoya 72mm DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter
This is one of the best filters we’ve found. It produces fabulously clean images by reducing glare and aberration. And it also eliminates discolorization in the viewfinder.
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Hoya 72mm DMC PRO1 Digital Circular Polarizer Glass Filter
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Neewer 9 Piece Full Color Filter Set
This is an excellent set of color filters from Neewer. It’s a nine-piece set and each filter is a different color. And the set includes a grey neutral density filter.
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Neewer 9 Piece Full Color Filter Set
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Essential Camera Accessories for Video Makers
Video and multi-media creation have become a massive part of the photography business. Many professionals work with video just as much as they do with stills. And these are the most important camera accessories for video creators.
17. Camera Stabilizer
Getting steady footage from a handheld DSLR or mirrorless camera is next to impossible. You can use a tripod, but that doesn’t allow any camera movement. A camera stabilizer lets you shoot moving footage and tracking shots while reducing shake.
A camera stabilizer uses counterweights and a flexible handle to keep your camera steady.
You can shoot tracking shots on foot, so you don’t need a dolly.
Glidecam XR-PRO Camera Stabilizer
The Glidecam XR-Pro is one of the best handheld stabilizers in the business. It’s a professional-grade piece of equipment. And it can handle cameras up to 10 lbs (4.5kg). But it isn’t cheap.
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Glidecam XR-PRO Camera Stabilizer
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As an alternative, we also recommend is the FLYCAM Redking Stabilizer. It has a solid build and provides superb stability when filming.
18. Camera Gimbal
A camera gimbal is another tool for shooting smooth video with your camera. It’s similar to a stabilizer, but it doesn’t use a counterweight. A gimbal counteracts the movement of the holder, so the camera isn’t affected.
Many photographers are moving from stabilizers to gimbals. They don’t use weights, so they’re lighter and easier to work with for long periods.
It also means they’re more compact.
DJI Ronin-SC Camera Stabilizer
The DJI Ronin-SC is at the top of most lists for camera gimbals. It’s a bit on the pricey side. But it can hold up to 4.4 lbs (2 kg). And the 3-axis stabilization will give you fabulous footage.
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DJI Ronin-SC Camera Stabilizer
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DJI also has a smaller gimbal for mobiles if you’re creating movies with your smartphone. The DJI OM 5 also works with 3-axis stabilization, so you’ll get the same excellent results. For more info, check out our DJI OM 5 review!
19. Camera Filming Rig
If you’re on your way to becoming the next Christopher Nolan, a camera rig could be the accessory for you. It provides the stability of a gimbal and stabilizer. And it gives you excellent camera control for capturing video.
With a camera rig, you can add other camera accessories to the setup.
You can add lights, microphones, and monitors. Your rig will become a cinema creation unit.
Filmcity Power DSLR Video Camera Cage Mount Rig (FC-CTH) Cage
The Filmcity Cage Mount is the best option for DSLR cameras. The three handles give you control and stable footage. And you can add other pieces of kit for a professional video setup.
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Filmcity Power DSLR Video Camera Cage Mount Rig (FC-CTH) Cage
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$90.00
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20. External Monitor
Shooting video with a DSLR or mirrorless camera can be difficult. Sometimes you don’t know if you’re getting the right shot. That’s why an external monitor is one of the most important camera accessories for videographers.
A monitor allows you to see exactly what you’re shooting when filming. It will seriously reduce the number of re-takes and re-shoots you’ll need. They save time and money while making filming much easier.
Sony CLM-V55 5-Inch Portable LCD Monitor for DSLR cameras
The Sony CLM-V55 LCD monitor is at the top of the range. It’s professional grade and comes with a professional price tag. The ANDYCINE A6 Pro is another great monitor. But this one is less painful on your wallet.
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Sony CLM-V55 5-Inch Portable LCD Monitor for DSLR cameras
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$327.90
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Conclusion
Camera accessories are an essential part of being a photographer. Accessories like camera bags and straps are totally necessary. You’ll need them just to get started. But other camera accessories are there to make your life easier and improve your artistic output.
Everything on this list would be an excellent addition to your camera bag. We have the best camera accessories that will meet every photographer’s need so they can perform to their best abilities.
2022 Equipment List For Photographers (17 Essential Photography Tools)
Photography equipment is an essential part of making great photos.
While some of us spend more time obsessing over gear than others…there are certain pieces of photography equipment you’re going to need to get started.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to start this great hobby or an experienced photographer that is looking to upgrade their kit, this breakdown of essential equipment for photographers will help you out.
I’ve categorized it into these categories for you:
- Camera
- Lenses
- Tripod
- Filters
- L-Bracket
- Accessories
- Lighting
- Cleaning
- Photo Editing
Let’s start with the most basic (and obvious) piece of gear you’ll need…
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1. Camera
If you’re reading this, you might already have a camera.
If you do…awesome. Skip to #2 because you can make great photos with any camera. But if you’re just getting started or currently shooting with your smartphone, here are some tips that will help.
If you plan on making photography a regular hobby, then getting a camera that can change lenses is extremely helpful. That doesn’t mean that fixed lens cameras are bad, but it is worth the added investment for an interchangeable lens camera if you can afford it.
I’ll get more into lens selection in the next section.
As far as camera type…mirrorless cameras are the way to go now. Manufacturers are moving away from DSLRs and putting all their best new technology into the mirrorless lineups. Nikon announced in 2022 that they would not be making any more new DSLRs.
But if you already have one, they are still great cameras. You don’t have to upgrade right away. Just be aware of this if you’re thinking about investing in any new lenses.
When you buy a camera, you are buying more than just the camera itself, you are buying into a camera system that includes a whole lot of lenses and compatible accessories.
So it is important to select a good system.
We usually refer to camera systems by the camera mount that the lenses fit on because you can interchange the cameras and lenses so long as they all have the same mount. So you can have a few
In my opinion, the best system out there is the Nikon Z Mount lineup. Here are my two favorites, depending on whether you want a less expensive model or a more “pro” quality camera.
Beginner Pick | Nikon Z50
The Nikon Z50 is a medium-sized crop sensor mirrorless SLR camera that is part of the Nikon Z mount system. It is my top pick as the best Nikon camera for beginners.
Camera For Beginners
Nikon | Z50
The Nikon Z50 is an excellent entry point into the Nikon Z Mount system. It has professional-level image quality with a 20.9 MP crop sensor as well as full manual control and excellent video capabilities up to 4k. This camera works with all Z mount lenses.
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I am often asked why beginners should not get a more advanced camera right away if they have the budget for it.
The main reason is that with higher end cameras comes more complexity. I’ve found that my students learn the fundamentals much better with a more simple camera. Then the transition to a more pro level camera is much easier.
Advanced Pick | Nikon Z6II
The Nikon Z6II is a full-frame mirrorless SLR camera in the Nikon Z Mount system and one that I would consider the best all-around camera on the market today.
Advanced Pick
Nikon | Z6II
The Nikon Z6II is a pro-level camera and can do just about anything. It has a 24.5 MP sensor that can shoot 14 frames per second and is among the best full-frame camera’s on the market for low light and dynamic range performance. It also has excellent video specs. It works with all of the Z mount full-frame lenses.
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With excellent image quality and low light performance combined with good shooting speed, you can use this camera for everything from portraits, to action sports, and even landscapes.
2. Lenses
The lens has more impact on the appearance of your image than anything else.
In fact, having a good quality lens on a less expensive camera will give you far better results than having the best camera possible with a low-quality lens.
If you are looking for a Nikon Lens, I created a detailed guide for you on all of the best Nikon lenses.
There are two types of lenses you can consider when looking to add another lens to your kit or when choosing your first lens, prime lenses, or zoom lenses.
Prime Lenses
Prime lenses are set at a single focal length (such as 50mm, 85mm, etc.).
The benefits to using a prime lens are that they are generally sharper, less expensive, and have wider maximum apertures compared to comparable zoom lenses.
The only real drawback to using a prime lens is that you have to change the lens if you’ll like to change the focal length. This can slow you down in situations where timing is important to get the shot such as events, sports, or wildlife.
Zoom Lenses
Zoom Lenses allow you to change the focal length of a lens without changing it. Some popular zoom lenses are the 24-70mm and the 70-200mm lenses.
The biggest benefit of the zoom lens is that you can change the look of your photo without having to change the lens. For example, with a 24-70mm lens you could easily shoot a wide angle landscape photo at 24mm and a portrait shot at 70mm.
Maximum Aperture
In addition to the focal length, another consideration when shoosing a lens is the maximum aperture. Many kit lenses that come with the camera will have a variable max aperture of something like f/4-5.6. While these lenses are inexpensive and may seem appealing to beginners, the smaller max aperture makes it difficult to acheive shots with a shallow depth of field.
If you’re just getting started, I would recommend a 50mm f/1.8 lens. This is often the least expensive lens in any camera system’s lineup and can be quite versatile.
Starting Lens
Nikon | Z 50mm f/1.
8
The Nikon 50mm f/1.8 is an excellent starting lens for the Nikon Z system and a great addition to any photographer’s bag. The wide f/1.8 aperture and versatile 50mm focal length will open up a wide range of photography opportunities.
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After that, you can add a lens that is more tailored to the kind of photography you shoot most often, such as a wide angle lens for landscapes or a telephoto zoom for sports or wildlife.
3. Tripod
Once you have a camera and lens, the third of the absolute necessities you’ll want to get is a tripod.
Whether you are shooting landscapes or portraits, having a tripod unlocks many different types of shots that you can’t get without one. The ability to lock down your camera on a stable base allows you to get shots that require longer shutter speeds without having to worry about holding your hands steady.
The major considerations when it comes to choosing a tripod are stability, weight, size, and cost.
Tripod range from the cheap $40 versions you see in electronics stores to high-end carbon fiber landscape tripods that cost over $1000 dollars.
Avoid the cheap ones at all costs. They barely work even when you first get them and one hike will render it completely useless. Save up at least $100 to get a tripod that will last a long time. I invested in a good tripod 8 years ago and I’m still using it on a regular basis.
Of the current models out there, Three-Legged Thing makes some of the best tripods. As long as you have the budget to spend on them.
Recommended Tripod
Three Legged Thing | Mike
The Mike model from Three Legged Thing is on par with the top tripods on the market. It’s a 3-section carbon fibre with great stability and a light weight of only 3.64 lbs. It also has a leveling head and can get almost to the ground for great low level landscape shots.
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There are more expensive tripods, like the well known Really Right Stuff, but I’ve found those to be somewhat overpriced for the average photographer.
However, if you spend a lot of time outdoors in harsh conditions, they are certainly worth the investment.
As for more budget-friendly tripods, I think the options from K&F Concepts provide decent quality for a low cost. The small size and lightweight of this tripod also make it great for traveling.
Budget Tripod
K&F Concepts | SA254M1
The K&F Concepts tripods are the best of the budget tripods. In addition to decent quality for the price, you get some nice features like a compatible phone holder, a detachable leg to use as a monopod, and a ballhead included.
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With low cost tripods, you have to accept that they are going to be less sturdy and have a limited lifespan, but it’s better to have one and then upgrade later than to not have one at all.
4. Polarizing Filter
Once you have the big three above, the very next thing you want to get is a good set of lens filters. Being able to control the light conditions will help you take better quality photos and even get shots that you never could have gotten without the filters.
There are two types of filters you should have, polarizing filters and ND filters.
Polarizing filters will help to remove glare and reflections from your image. They work basically the same as polarized sunglasses.
By decreasing the bright reflections and glare off of things like water or leaves, you’ll get better-quality images with richer and deeper colors.
5. ND Filters
ND Filters cut down the amount of light entering your camera. This will allow you to have greater control over your exposure.
One of the most common uses of an ND filter is to darken the image so that you can use a longer shutter speed to get proper exposure. Shooting long-exposure images like this let you show motion blur in things like clouds, water, cars, or anything else that moves.
When choosing a set of filters, I look for image quality and ease of use. If you employ any type of filters in your photography, you’ll be taking them on and off often, so if they are not easy to put on or remove, it can have a negative effect on your ability to get the shot.
I’ve been using the Kase Wolverine magnetic filters for the last couple of years and they have been great. They have exceptionally high image quality and the magnetic mount makes them extremely fast and easy to use.
Recommended Gear
Kase Wolverine Magnetic Filter System
The Kase Wolverine Filters are among the industry’s best as far as image quality and the magnetic mounting system makes them extremely easy to use.
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The only downside of the Kase Wolverine filters is the cost. You definitely get what you pay for but their kit isn’t cheap. So if budget is a concern, try the filters from K&F Concepts.
6. L-Bracket
A good L-bracket is inexpensive and almost as important as having a tripod for many types of photography.
It is basically an L-shaped mount for your camera that will fit into your tripod in either landscape or portrait orientation. The benefit of this is that it allows you to easily change the orientation of your camera in a tripod without making any adjustments to the tripod setup.
This may not seem like a big deal but if you shoot landscapes it can save a lot of time and help you get multiple looks of the same shot quickly and easily.
Recommended Gear
Three Legged Thing | Ellie
The Ellie L-bracket from Three Legged Thing is simple, solid, and the bright orange color adds a little style to separate your camera from the rest (or you can get the black version).
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My favorite L-bracket is the Three-Legged Thing Ellie. It fits a number of differnet cameras so you won’t have to get a new one if you change cameras down the line.
7. Memory Cards
There are two kinds of memory cards that you are likely to need for your digital camera.
SD Cards
SD Cards are the most common type of memory cards and probably the type you are familiar with.
I recommend the SanDisk Extreme Pro. In fact, given the small price difference between these and the less expensive model from SanDisk, don’t even consider getting another model.
Go with the Extreme Pro. These are the fastest cards on the market and are made to high tolerance standards that make failures rare.
Recommended Gear
SanDisk | Extreme Pro SD Card
The Extreme Pro SD cards from SanDisk are the best and most reliable cards on the market. These are the only cards I ever use.
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CFexpress
Some modern cameras use a newer type of card called CFexpress. They are considerably faster and much more rugged and stable. However, they cost a lot more. The top cameras on the market, like the Nikon Z9, use this type of card.
For these, I would also recommend going with the SanDisk Extreme Pro CFexpress cards. SanDisk has a great track record of reliability.
8. Extra Batteries
One of the biggest downsides to mirrorless cameras is that they use more battery than a DSLR because. So you’ll need some extra batteries.
I would recommend having at least 2 extra batteries if you plan to shoot for long periods of time.
I also always keep a battery pack in my camera bag to plug into your camera or charge your batteries.
There are a lot of 3rd party batteries on the market, but you’ll generally get the best value for your money by buying the batteries from the camera manufacturer. 3rd party batteries are cheaper but they often don’t last as long and have a shorter lifespan.
9. Camera Bag
A camera bag is one of those things you never realize the importance of until you don’t have one with you.
A good camera bag is going to hold all the gear that you use on a regular basis and maybe still have some extra space for things you use only for certain types of shots (like a flash, for example).
It should also be durable and stiff enough to protect your gear from minor impacts like drops or bumping into things. This is why I don’t really recommend using a regular bag or backpack to carry your camera unless you add some kind of padding to it. Everyday bags just do not protect a camera well enough.
The bag I recommend and use is the backpack-style Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW II. It’s waterproof, has tons of storage, a stiffer shell without being hard plastic, lets you attach things like a tripod to the outside, is comfortable to wear, and has a hip strap to take some weight off your shoulders on long hikes.
Recommended Camera Bag
LowePro | ProTactic 350 AW II
The ProTactic 350 AW II is the newest version of the excellent ProTactic line from LowePro. It works excellently whether you are taking all your gear to a portrait shoot or packing light for a landscape photo hike.
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My favorite feature is that it opens from the side that is against your back. That means with you put it down to open it, the part you wear isn’t on the ground. This is great when you’re out somewhere in nature and want to avoid getting water, mud, dirt, etc. on your shirt.
10. Reflector
Most people start shooting portraits in natural sunlight, but you’ll learn pretty soon that shooting like this can be limiting and you’ll want to add some gear to help you control the light.
Before you go spending money on flash equipment, start out with a simple reflector like this one. Using this outdoors in the sun will help you balance out the light and soften any harsh shadows on your subject.
It’s an inexpensive but incredibly useful piece of gear.
11. Flash
After a little practice with the reflector, you may decide it’s time to add some flash equipment. Buying flash gear is similar to buying a camera because you have to consider the system you are buying into. If you get more serious about flash photography then you’ll want multiple remote flashes to help you have total control over the light on your subject.
Start with one flash and one remote to connect to your camera. Using a flash on the hot shoe of your camera can be useful if you are shooting indoors and moving around a lot, like at a party. But it is quite limiting if you want to shoot posed portraits.
Getting a remote trigger so that you can use your flash off-camera will make a massive difference in the quality of your portraits.
If you want a more detailed dive into flash gear, I created this guide on the best off-camera flash gear. I break down all the gear you need from beginner to creating a portrait studio setup.
If you are just getting started, I recommend this flash and trigger from Godox to get you started.
Recommended Flash
Godox | TT685 II
The Godox TT685 II is reasonably priced and great for someone getting started with flash photography. It is compatible with the Godox X remote system which means that it can be used side by side with even their top mono-lights.
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Keep in mind when buying any flash gear that attaches to the hot shoe of your camera (like this flash and trigger) that you’ll need to purchase the version that matches your camera brand. They are designated by a single letter (C, N, S, F, O, or P) which refer to the following brands:
- C = Canon
- N = Nikon
- S = Sony
- F = Fuji
- O = Olympus
- P = Panasonic
Choosing the right brand will make sure all the features of the flash work properly.
Recommended Trigger
Godox | X2T
The X2T trigger is an affordable trigger that works with all of the Godox X system flashes.
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Godox makes great gear at a reasonable price and just about all of their current models can work together off of the same trigger. So as you build your flash kit, you’ll be able to mix and match flashes without worrying about compatibility.
12. Lens Wipes
Keeping your camera and lenses clean is essential to making sure they last a long time. Almost every time I shoot outdoors, I will at least wipe down my camera and lenses. If I am shooting somewhere with moisture in the air, like at the beach, I’ll be even more thorough in my cleaning.
Disposable lens wipes like these are invaluable. I buy a large box about once a year and use them to clean everything from lenses, camera bodies, flash gear, and even my sunglasses. Just don’t use them to clean your camera sensor.
13.
Microfiber ClothYou can’t have enough microfiber cloths like these.
You can use them to brush the dust off your camera in windy conditions or keep lenses dry in rainy weather. They’re safe for lenses so you don’t have to worry about scratches. However, I would save the heavier lens cleaning for the lens wipes above.
14. Dust Blower
A decent dust blower like this rocket blower is great at getting loose dust of your camera and lens without having to touch it and risk smudges or streaks.
A blower is also the first thing you want to try if you have dust on your sensor. Whatever you do, DON’T use those canned air blowers that are for cleaning computers. They can do some serious damage to your camera sensor.
15. Editing Software | Lightroom and Photoshop
Photo editing (or post-processing) is an essential part of digital photography.
There are a few different options you can go with here but the industry standard is the Adobe Photo Package which includes Lightroom and Photoshop.
This is where you should start if you want to learn photo editing. There’s very little you can’t do with these two programs and there is a ton of online content about them both.
Recommended Gear
Adobe Lightroom & Photoshop
The Photography Plan from Adobe is really all you need for any kind of photo editing. It’s also one of the most affordable options out there at $9.99/month.
Get A Free Trial
You can get both for $9.99/month which is a pretty good deal considering everything you can do with just those two programs.
16. Software Add-Ons
There really any add-ons you’ll need, but the one set of add-ons that I’ve been using over the past year is the Topaz software. They have three separate programs for sharpening, noise reduction, and enlarging images that are pretty impressive.
CLICK HERE to check them out.
I’ve used the sharpening one quite often. It’s not the normal kind of sharpening that you can accomplish in Lightroom or Photoshop.
It can actually take an image where you missed focus a little bit and sharpen it up. It does this better than any other software I’ve tried.
17. Photo Editing Computer
A reliable and fast computer is necessary to run almost any photo editing software. There are hundreds of models that work well and you can even build your own custom computer using component parts (that’s what I did).
So rather than pick a random computer model, I’ll cover some of the things you need to look for when buying one.
Important Specs
There are three computer specs that have the biggest effect on the speed at which you can edit photos:
- Processor Speed
- Hard Drive Speed
- Graphics Processor RAM and Speed
As for CPUs and GPUs, the faster the better but speed costs money. The processor is more important than the GPU for photo editing but the GPU is important if you want to edit some videos also.
Hard drive speed is critical. Having an SSD hard drive makes a massive difference compared to a regular HDD.
If you are looking for one thing to upgrade to speed up your computer, start off by making sure you are using an SSD for storing your photos and Lightroom catalog (if you’re using Lightroom).
5 Things You Really Don’t Need…
Top Of The Line Camera
Especially if you are just getting started with photography, the flagship models for each of the camera brands are overkill for 95% of you out there. They are designed for professional photographers that are being paid to do things like shoot professional sports and need features like 20 frames per second.
Most of us will never need more than the middle-of-the-road full-frame models. In fact, I built a successful photography business using a Nikon D5100, a mid-range crop sensor camera.
So before you go spending $5000+ on a camera body, think again and go for a nice lens instead.
Camera Store Bundles
Camera stores love to upsell you on trash you’ll never use. They always have a bundle available for “just a little more money” that includes a tripod that will break the second time you use it, a camera bag that won’t fit half the things you need, and a microfiber cloth (ok that last one is useful…I always lose those).
Skip the bundle. You’d get a better value for your money if you played the lottery.
UV Filter
UV Filters are good for one situation. When you are shooting in harsh elements like a sandstorm or driving rain and you want to keep your front element protected. Other than that very specific situation, they are completely useless.
Color Checker
These are useful for video but if you’re shooting RAW and can adjust white balance after the fact, they aren’t helpful at all. Skip the color checker.
Light Meters
A lot of professional photographers still use these with flash, but I think it’s an extra unnecessary step. With digital cameras, you can simply take a shot and see how it looks in order to adjust the flash.
Using a light meter is complicated, takes time, and you still end up adjusting the light after you take a test shot. So skip the meter and go straight to taking test shots.
Studio Light, Photo Studio Lighting, Photography Lighting and Photography Equipment
Item Code: 1100411
FOTOBESTWAY LED 169A LED Light
FOTOBESTWAY LED 169A is a lightweight and compact LED light source that provides a soft, high efficiency light source which is perfect for shooting in the studio and for location shooting.
With the help of a special dimmer, the power of the illuminator is smoothly adjusted. nine
Product code: 17929088
Studio flash Falcon Eyes Phantom 600 HSS
1/8000 sec in HSS mode, recycling time 0.2-2.0 sec, color temperature 5600±200K. 30W LED modeling light. Possibility of wireless control (built-in receiver, radio synchronizer sold separately). Aluminum housing, Bowens bayonet mount. Weight 2.4 kg. nine0003
29 450 ₽
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Product code: 19892787
Godox VK1-LT equipment kit for smartphone
Godox VK1-LT equipment kit for video shooting. Foldable tripod Godox MT01, cage (rig) Godox VSS-R01, LED illuminator Godox LITEMONS LED6R RGB with adjustable brightness and color temperature 3200K … 6500K, CRI≥ 95, power 6 W, on-camera gun microphone Godox VD-Mic with anti-vibration suspension and wind protection, cover. For connection to smartphones with Jack 3.5 mm, Lightning
13 620 ₽8 800 ₽
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Product code: 20231632
Canon EOS R10 Body
The Canon EOS R10 is a versatile camera for shooting absolutely any objects.
The ideal travel companion. The perfect hybrid content creation tool. The Canon EOS R10 strikes the perfect balance. The 24.2 MP image sensor provides the perfect balance of detail, speed and low-light performance. A maximum sensitivity of ISO 32000 (expandable to ISO 51200) enhances detail and reduces noise when shooting in the dark. In addition, there is a built-in flash to help brighten the subject. nine0003
$68
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Good light is the key to good photography. Under natural conditions, the photographer has no way to influence the sunlight, he can only adjust to the existing conditions, which are far from always favorable. When shooting indoors, normal lighting is also often not enough. This is where studio lighting and photography equipment come to the rescue.
Studio lighting and photographic equipment.
Today, there are a large number of various light sources and various kinds of accessories for more precise control of light to achieve the desired result in photography, regardless of where you are shooting - at home, in a professional studio or even on the street.
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All this variety is presented in our online store of equipment for photo studios www.Fe-Foto.ru. At first, a large selection can be confusing. What is better to use - constant light or pulsed? Which flash is better? Will the beauty dish you choose work with your existing all-in-one? All these and many other questions will be answered by our specialists who have worked in professional photo studios for a long time and had the opportunity to actually evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of various brands of photographic equipment. nine0003
Falcon Eyes brand photo studio equipment.
The most widely represented in our online store is Falcon Eyes photo equipment, which represents the whole range of studio equipment and equipment for mobile studios and outdoor photo shoots - from studio monoblocks and all kinds of attachments for them to flashes for cameras and filters for lenses. Falcon Eyes flashes and accessories are easy to use and intuitive to operate. Falcon Eyes is a good choice for value for money.
Photo products at www.fe-foto.ru
In our online store you can buy studio lighting not only from Falcon Eyes, but also from other manufacturers. All offered products (flashlights, constant light sources, stands, reflectors, softboxes, etc.) can be ordered with delivery to any city in Russia. In addition, we are always happy to advise you on the choice of photographic equipment you need. Each customer can count on an individual approach. Our specialists are always ready to carefully study your needs and offer you the option that will be optimal for solving your problems. nine0003
Necessary equipment for a photo studio - Vtotochka
To create high-quality pictures, it is not enough to have a multifaceted talent. Like any art, photography requires the use of special tools and fixtures, as well as a fully functional photo studio. Every photographer must face the question - what studio equipment to choose?
Photo studio kit includes both basic and optional equipment.
When choosing photo equipment for a studio, you should pay attention to the quality characteristics of the equipment and not save on purchases. By investing in high-tech equipment for a photo studio, you can quickly recoup your costs and earn good money. nine0003
Naturally, shooting always starts with the camera, but each photographer has his own preferences in choosing this equipment for a photo studio, so it makes no sense to give advice in this direction.
Photo studio kit must include:
- Studio light.
- Photophones.
- Flashes.
- Reflectors.
- Softboxes.
- Photo umbrellas.
- Reflectors.
A kit that includes these types of photo studio equipment will allow you to put into practice almost any idea. nine0003
Studio light
Lighting equipment for photography may be of a pulsed or continuous type. When using a constant source, the visibility of the picture is immediately visible, it should be chosen when photographing with SLR cameras and compact cameras.
Impulse light sources will make shooting comfortable for the model and the photographer, while there is no need for high energy costs.
Photophones
This is an indispensable accessory for a photo studio, which allows you to create the necessary mood in the frame, emphasize the details and advantages of the subject being shot. Photophones are made of paper and fabric and range in size from compact small units to large formats used for photographing large objects. nine0003
Paper backdrops are a budget option that is part of a set of minimal equipment for a photo studio. This consumable comes in various colors and shades, and if necessary, it can be cut into pieces of the desired format. Fabric backgrounds are a reusable tool, and the presence of frames in the design allows you to perform the tension necessary for work.
With the help of backgrounds, you can make portraits and shoot small objects, and if you need to post-process photos, the presence of a photo background simplifies the process of editing the composition.
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Flashes
This is an indispensable equipment for a photo studio and a device without which the work of a photographer of any level is impossible. The studio flash helps you take high-quality pictures, providing the necessary contrast even when the main light is bright. It is impossible to create an interesting play of shadows, shoot a dynamic plot, perform reportage or portrait shooting without using a flash.
The power of the devices should be chosen depending on the genre of photography:
- 45 J for portraits;
- 250-300 J for full body shots.
The presence of a power reserve will allow you to adjust the radiation intensity, flexibly adjusting the device during operation. When choosing which flash to purchase as a studio equipment, you should give preference to models with a power rating of 400 joules from the world's leading manufacturers - Bowens, Falcon, Mircopro, Rime Lite, etc.
Reflectors
This studio equipment is used to give pictures individuality and unusualness, obtaining specific effects.
Especially for this, light discs are produced in various colors - white, black, silver, golden, etc.
Professional photographers value quality products - reflectors from Mircopro, Visico, Elinchrom and Hyundae Photonics will last a long time and help you shoot many original compositions.
Softboxes
Softboxes are used to produce soft diffused light. These devices have compact dimensions and are used in conjunction with various light sources. Benefits of using softboxes:
- Reduces the blurring of shadows and bumps.
- Light pattern softening.
- Eliminates unwanted reflections.
Photo Umbrellas
The most common accessory in the photography studio. Their use is justified in various types of shooting and ensures the saturation of shades and color depth in the frame. Folding and one-piece designs of various diameters, translucent or reflective types are an important accessory in any studio. nine0003
Reflectors
Various flash attachments are used to reflect the light flux, direct it at the required angle and create chiaroscuro gradations.
