Camera bag essentials

drummerJ99

Senior Member
So I'm really wanting to get more and more into photography and be ready for any shot that comes my way. My question is what are camera bag essentials that I should always have on me. I was thinking like along the lines of air blaster, filters, something to clean the lens/filter.

And speaking of filter, what would you recommend I get without breaking the bank? Just UV? Do I need the rest? Are they worth $40-$60 for a set?

Thanks in Advance,
Jeffrey


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Slipperman

Senior Member
i find the neutral density comes in real handy for those occasional long exposure shots during the day (along with some neg exposure compensation). the circular polarizer i haven't mastered yet but it's good for reflection and sun flare reduction.
 
i find the neutral density comes in real handy for those occasional long exposure shots during the day (along with some neg exposure compensation). the circular polarizer i haven't mastered yet but it's good for reflection and sun flare reduction.

i recently got a variable ND filter and I am not sure how I got along without it. A good one can be very pricey. Mine was close to $400. If you can't get a really good one through don't buy one at all. Cheap will be worse than none at all.

A Circular Polarizer is a must have. Get as good as you can afford
 

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
So I'm really wanting to get more and more into photography and be ready for any shot that comes my way. My question is what are camera bag essentials that I should always have on me. I was thinking like along the lines of air blaster, filters, something to clean the lens/filter.
In reality the best way to make sure you don't miss any shot that comes your way is to be prepared ahead of time. Just as important, IMO, is is a thorough understanding the exposure triangle, how to read and interpret the cameras histogram and knowing how to adjust your camera settings backwards and forwards. That means being able to adjust settings for the best capture you can get without undue fumbling or reaching into your bag to begin with. That and a basic understanding of what makes for good composition. It's this sort of boring, mundane knowledge that will elevate your shooting from snapshots to "Wow!" shots; more so by far than any filter or kit you can put in your bag. I'd highly suggest you to pick up a copy of Brian Peterson's Understanding Exposure and Roberto Valenzuela's Picture Perfect Practice before spending money on gear. Read them and heed them.

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And speaking of filter, what would you recommend I get without breaking the bank? Just UV? Do I need the rest? Are they worth $40-$60 for a set?
In my opinion, if you don't know what filter(s) you need, you don't need any filters.

If you'd like one to protect the front element of your lens look for a Hoya HD Protector. They run about $45 or so for a 67mm.
 
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