This may come as a surprise, but there is a new DVD Adam and I have been working on.
A few weeks ago, a good friend of mine purchased a DSLR and kept on sending me text messages about what accessories he should get. This always seems to happen to me whenever a friend buys a new DSLR and he suggested:
“You really should make an introduction DVD on accessories for beginners. What are the must have items, terminology, basic camera care, bags, etc, where to purchase, what to watch out for.”
The more I thought about it, the more I was convinced this was a worth while project, so Adam and I have been shooting this between book writing and the Lighting DVD (Which is coming together VERY nicely). It should be just under 2 hours and will probably retail for about $19-20. Downloads should be available at the end of the month. It is different than my other videos because it isnt very technical, its more informative as a show, tell, and demonstrate what the accessory is and does.
Are there any topics you guys think would be worth covering on this accessories DVD?
Here are just some of the Lessons and Topics:
– To Kit Lens or Not to Kit Lens
– Where to buy and what to avoid
– Memory Cards & Speeds
– Straps
– Lens Discussion, Crash Course, Tradeoffs and Top recommendations for types of shooting (not just weddings or portraits).
– Light Reflectors
– Grey Cards and White Balance
– Filters Galore
– Camera Flash Units
– Alien Bees and Studio Lighting
– Brackets and Flash Cords
– Remotes
– Cleaning Kits
– Lens Wraps
– Tripods
– Heads
– Monopods
– Unique Support Devices
– Extension Tubes
– Extenders
– External Hard Drives and Storage
– Bags
– Batteries
– Basic Camera Care
– Cleaning Sensors & Lenses
– Video Accessories, including Microphones, splitters,
– Video Lighting Equipment
Is there anything I am missing? What would you have liked to have known the first time you bought a camera as far as accessories go?
What about caring cases? back packs? Capture camera clip devise? What take with you when you tour a city hike a trail etc.
Carrying bags. I took my camera and 2 lenses to the store and had the clerk reconfigure the inside of the Lowepro backpack for me. I knew where everything would go and have enjoyed the same bag for nearly 3 years. No regrets regarding my purchase.
Hood for lens.
Backdrop stands.
Backdrops.
Preferred lighting equipment (strobe vs continual lighting).
Love my walkstool!
Protection for LCD screen (camera)
Forgot to mention the following:
Printing companies – things to consider (local, national, do it your self)
Photograph paper – types to buy for printing
Printers/ink – what to look for/buy
Organization and backup
Editing software – which to buy or what to consider
Cords (extension, video, what you’ll need)
Insuring your equipment
Card readers perhaps.
I promise to buy the DVD if you can make a tripod recommendation right now. Just something basic, good value, etc. for a small camera (T1i) with small lenses.
Thanks and I’m ordering Adv. Tech. and Speedlights today.
Cory- Check under the link "Resources–> Michael’s Bag" above. You will find most of my gear listed there. There is a direct link on this page for the one I am currently recommending. I love the Bogen Manfrotto Carbon fiber tripods and am also considering a 4 section one now for better packing.