Get closer to your subject with a new lens. (iStock)
Want to take your photography hobby to the next level? We’ve picked 8 accessories that will help you elevate your hobby and improve the quality of your work. These accessories and gadgets will not only help you take better photos, but they’ll also keep you comfortable. The right accessories can help you up your game and improve your skills. Here are 8 to consider:
This tripod fits in a backpack. (Uranji)
Flexible tripods are perfect for capturing stable, shake-free shots. Plus, they’re easy to use and carry. Available for under $50, the Ulanzi MT-68 CLAW Quick Release Flexible Tripod comes with a quick release plate, 360° panoramic ball head, and is customizable. This tripod is compatible with smartphones, DSLRs, SLRs, mirrorless, compact, panoramic, and action cameras. You can buy this tripod on Amazon for under $20There is a wireless remote control option.
Try using a camera lens hood. (Walmart)
A camera lens hood that attaches to the front of your lens can make a big difference in the quality of your images. It acts like a visor for your lens, blocking or reducing glare in your photos. This Promaster 77mm Digital Lens Hood, available at Walmart for under $20, is a petal-shaped design for the wide focal lengths required by today’s digital SLR cameras. KUVRD Lens Hood, available on Amazon for under $45is collapsible and can be folded up like an accordion.
An external hard drive for your hobby. (B&H Photo Video)
An external hard drive is undoubtedly one of the most essential accessories for any developing hobby. This LaCie 2TB Rugged Mini USB 3.0 external hard drive is available for under $100 at B&H Photo Video. This hard drive is shock, drop, and pressure resistant, and has a rubber sleeve for added protection. Review of this option SanDisk on sale for under $100 on AmazonThe company said it has stored large amounts of video footage.
A small umbrella to protect your gear from the weather. (Walmart)
An umbrella that attaches to the top of your camera is practical and smart because it keeps you and your equipment safe. This camera hot shoe umbrella sells for under $11 at Walmart., It protects your camera from rain, snow, bird droppings and other unexpected weather conditions, and also acts as an excellent sunshade to prevent your camera screen from being overexposed on sunny days. You can get this black one on Amazon for under $25.
Use this lens to get close to your subject and take pictures. (B&H Photo Video)
The 70-200mm lens is a handy lens that will meet 90% of most zooming needs. This lens is great for landscape photography where you want to zoom in and get beautiful shots of distant subjects. Canon users can purchase this 70-200mm lens for around $2,100. Amazon or available at B&H Photo Video. A great option for Nikon DSLR users is the AF-S 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR, which can be purchased at B&H Photo Video for under $1,900.
This backpack is convertible. (B&H Photo Video)
If you’re buying new gear, you’ll also want to make sure you’re transporting it safely. This Nomatic McKinnon 21L Cube Pack and Convertible Backpack, on sale for under $125 at B&H Photo Video, can be used as a camera cube to stow in a larger bag or as a functional backpack on its own. Or try this one. CADeN camera backpack It’s a simple and inexpensive option that will accomplish your purpose for under $50 on Amazon. The waterproof bag can fit two DSLR/SLR camera bodies, six lenses, a laptop, a flash, a tripod, and other accessories.
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The clip keeps your camera cap safe. (B&H Photo Video)
Without a cap, your camera lens could get scratched or damaged, so use a cap clip to store your lens. This Hufa Cap Clip, on sale for under $11 at B&H Photo Video, is a convenient, easy-to-use way to store your cap on your camera strap. CamDesign Cap BuckleIt sells for under $12 on Amazon, and you can even clip it onto your camera strap to keep the cap safe.
Choose the comfort of this strap. (B&H Photo Video)
Carrying around a camera can be a pain. Make it easier with the ZEISS Air Cell Comfort Strap, available for under $50 from B&H Photo Video. This strap is made from soft neoprene with a wide cut and cushioned air cell padding. Also available on Adorama.
Nora Colomer is a personal finance writer on Fox Business’ Strategic Initiatives team.